Top 50 Dog Breeds, What Makes Them Special, and Why We Love Them

By Nick Heroun

In an interview with Seth Myers, rapper and TV star Ice-T made this succinct observation: “I love dogs, I don’t trust people who don’t like dogs. Unless you can tell me some traumatic childhood experience where you got bit or something, other than that, if you just don’t like dogs, you’re suspect to me . . . there’s something wrong. Dogs are the best, we don’t deserve them.”

Most of us would probably agree. And if our dogs’ universal attribute is loyalty, we’re giving it right back in spades, as indicated by the four-fold growth of the pet industry over the past 25 years.

Consider that over 60 percent of American households include at least one canine. Demand for services like dog-walkers and groomers have exploded. Spa treatments for dogs are all the rage, and by extension, mobile grooming services are expected to be the next big thing. Exclusive pet hotels with private suites have replaced the crude kennels of the past. Increasingly, upscale hotels are making accommodations for their guests’ four-legged companions. And dog-friendly apartment dwellings have targeted young singles in major urban centers who tend to cohabitate with pups rather than babies.

Wisely, a majority of Millenial dog owners consider pet insurance mandatory and many expect to spend more on their dog’s health care than their own. The president of the American Pet Products Association was recently quoted saying, “Talk to any pet owner and they’ll tell you how difficult it is to put a dollar limit on what they’d spend to give their loyal companion a happy life.”

The 2018 Pets and People Survey by Purina reveal even more about the unique bond people share with their dogs.

Among the findings:

• 95 percent view their dog as part of the family

• 62 percent said their dog helps them de-stress after a long day at work

• 55 percent believe their dog provides emotional comfort after receiving bad news

• And 50 percent of all women said they preferred time with their dog over time with their partner

Whoa! That last item is a zinger, though on the flipside the survey also found dogs have helped 15 percent of men gain the attention of the opposite sex. Which means that dog parks are quite possibly the best singles scene ever devised. Gentlemen, take note.

50. Bloodhound

These hounds possess powerful and peerless scent tracking that was exploited by the Roman legions. Bred to hunt deer, boar, and people, Bloodhounds were instrumental in capturing escaped slaves in the southern United States during the 19th century, and prisoners, fugitives, and missing persons in the decades since.

More recently these sleuths have been seared into our collective subconscious as symbols of piety and law enforcement by the popular mascot McGruff the Crime Dog. Willful and arduous to train, look elsewhere should you be considering a family pet for small children.

49. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier

While the name may not be familiar, there’s no mistaking its profile and type. Bred in Ireland over 200 years ago as an all-purpose farm dog, its many tasks included hunting vermin and guarding livestock. Wheaten Terriers are lovable, quick, devoted, and affectionate, maintaining the exuberance of a puppy for their entire life.

48. Saint Bernard

These imposing, iconic Swiss rescue dogs are often portrayed with a small barrel of brandy to provide avalanche victims with a warming drink. Despite folklore, providing alcohol to someone freezing on a mountain does more harm than good.

47. Akita

This ancient, muscular, and double-coated Japanese breed trace back to the mountainous Akita region of Japan. Known as “Snow Mountain Dogs” they are revered as symbols of health, happiness, and vitality.

46. Bichon Frise

Pronounced bee-shon-free-zay, these light-hearted, relentlessly merry puffballs require diligent grooming maintenance to be at their best. Wickedly smart and uniquely blessed with a pure white, plush, hypoallergenic coat, Bichons enjoy performing and love to charm everyone they meet.

45. Shiba Inu

The precocious Shiba at first glance recalls a small Husky, though their face has much in common with a teddy bear. No wonder, then, that they occupy a special place in the hearts of Japanese families, which share a fondness for cute, cuddly, creatures (both real and fictitious). Like their Akita brethren, sweet-natured Shibas possess compact, strong bodies and a double coat of fur.

44. Belgian Malinois

Of all breeds, Mals—derived from German Shepherds—stand out as the most badass. Which naturally makes them preferred among law-enforcement, search and rescue teams, the military, and security, including the U.S. Secret Service responsible for guarding the White House. These work dogs are exemplary in their athleticism, intelligence, and sheer beauty. Though they require professional training and handling to keep them properly exercised and engaged.

43. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

These Mid-Atlantic Retrievers are known for their waterproof coat and are the perfect companion for duck hunting. Just don’t get mad if they laugh at your bad aim.

42. West Highland White Terrier

The popular tiny terriers are self-reliant, possibly stemming from being originally bred to hunt rats. Their snow-white fur was an intentionally bred and refined trait to assure that they wouldn’t be confused with foxes or rabbits while on the hunt.

41. Rhodesian Ridgeback

A cross between Great Danes and indigenous African dogs, Ridgebacks were conceived by colonial European farmers for protection and for tracking lions. Their name derives from the notable ridge of hair running down the middle of their back. Dignified, strong-willed, and independent, the Ridgeback is a worthy specimen for seasoned dog owners. First-timers are advised to look elsewhere.

40. Collie

One of the most beloved breeds ever, thanks to a certain film star, these majestic dogs come in two coat varieties, rough or smooth. Collies are eager learners with a gentle temperament that make the perfect pet for households with children.

39. Basset Hound

This classic droopy-eared, low-rider has a sense of smell second only to bloodhounds in capability. Excellent at tracking prey like hare, the loose elastic skin around the neck and ears actually helps trap the scent of what they’re tracking. Despite their hang-dog appearance, they are outgoing and sweet-tempered, though they can be stubborn as well.

38. Border Collie

Behind their famously gorgeous, intelligent eyes are an agile, hardworking pup full of energy. Affectionate, athletic, and bred to herd, they need a sense of purpose like training or sports to feel contented. They make great companions for quality game time in the backyard or park.

37. Cane Corso

Serving as bodyguards for Romans in antiquity, they’re still on duty thousands of years later. A member of the Mastiff breed, Corsi are possessed of an imposing presence, befitting their name which translates to “protector” in Latin. Smart, eager, and intensely loyal, they require commitment and early socialization to achieve their best potential.

36. Newfoundland

Their protective demeanor and massive bulk give them the presence of a friendly mountain bear. They were originally bred and used as working dogs for fishermen in Newfoundland in the Canadian Maritimes. ‘Newfies’ are excellent swimmers that excel at water rescue thanks to their webbed feet and a water-resistant coat.

35. Miniature American Shepherd

A dead-ringer for the pocket-sized Australian Shepherd, Minis bristle with energy and intelligence, desperately wanting to be helpful, in true herding dog form. Endearing and lively, Minis are of recent heritage, developed in California in the late 1960s based on Australian Shepherd stock. A truly versatile breed, it can be as happy playing city sports like flyball as it is herding goats on a farm.

34. Weimaraner

With its silvery coat, this mainstay of the family dog group is a perfectly rounded individual. The elegant Weimaraner assisted royal houses in hunting large game like deer and bears. Imbued with nobility, grace, and gentleness, these superb specimens are show-stoppers.

33. Maltese

This ancient toy dog of Malta can find a friend in anyone and makes for a surprisingly alert watchdog. Like the West Highland Terrier, they were bred to be pure white by Roman emperors who wanted their pets to have a color they considered divine.

32. Chihuahua

One of the oldest breeds from the Americas, and a convenient mascot of their native Mexico. A small dog with a big attitude, they were for years considered essential fashion accessories for high street ladies. Demanding but lovable, these little brutes require training to live with, but ultimately make life-long, faithful companions.

31. Pug

The Pug’s capacity to display a wide array of human-like facial expressions, plus a knack for mischief makes them natural cut-ups. Funny enough, a group of Pugs is called a Grumble. Considered the ideal house dog by many, Pugs are happy as long as they are loved.

30. Vizsla

One of the smallest retriever breeds, these beautiful golden-rust colored sporting dogs are very high-energy, graceful and smart; though gentle and sensitive at the same time. An athletic Hungarian breed, it thrives on activity, making them an ideal jogging or biking buddy.

29. Cocker Spaniel

For years Cocker Spaniels were America’s breed of choice. Bred for hunting, Cockers got their name from the birds they were at hunting, Woodcocks. While playful and sweet, they are also the highest maintenance of the Spaniel family, able to bark profusely. Training is essential to keep the neighbors from hating on you.

28. Mastiff

Clocking in at a massive 30 inches in length and over 200 pounds, Mastiffs have been around since the dawn of civilization as one of man’s oldest and greatest protectors. Despite its size, the Mastiff flourishes in small spaces and urban environments.

27. English Springer Spaniel

The best hunters of the Spaniel clan are filled with brawn, brain, and undying love for bird necks. Until the turn of the 20th century, they shared a breed designation with Cocker Spaniels. Born from the same litter, the smaller dogs were Cockers while the larger ones were Springers.

26. Brittany

Agile, upbeat, with nigh-endless energy, they excel in all manner of sports and training. Sized in-between larger Setters and shorter Spaniels, Brittany’s need lots of exercise and are perfect companions for those with active, outdoorsy lifestyles.

25. Bernese Mountain Dog

The Bernese’s calm temperament and big, brawny mass suits their origins as dependable, noble work dogs from Switzerland. These gentle giants affectionately attach themselves to one person, who is typically the one tasked with managing the Bernese’s prolific shedding!

24. Shetland Sheepdog

Scottish Shelties are sturdy, diminutive herding dogs derived from Rough Collies and King Charles Spaniels for the purpose of—you guessed it—persuading sheep to stay with the flock. Shetlands are purposeful, intelligent, vocal, excitable and eager to please. Incredibly loyal, they are often referred to as “shadows” due to their attachment to family.

23. Havanese

The national dog of Cuba, Havana dogs have found their way into an ever-increasing number of American cities, homes, and hearts. Their intense social needs and desire to always be around humans has earned them the nickname “Velcro Dogs”.

22. Pomeranian

Despite packing one of the smallest of builds, Poms carry the tenacity befitting a larger dog. Extroverted, playful, and lively these toy dogs enjoy being the center of attention.

21. Boston Terrier

These good-natured, compact tuxedoes are delightful companions especially well-suited for city-dwellers. Bostons genealogy can be traced to a stout Liverpudlian from the late 1860s named Judge, a cross between a Bulldog and the now-extinct white English Terrier. Judge traveled across the pond to Boston, where he became the patriarch and common ancestor of all true Bostons, the first officially registered American breed. The “American Gentleman” became the official dog of the State of Massachusetts as well as the honorable mascot of Boston University.

20. Shih Tzu

Shih Tzus, or “Lion Dog” in Chinese dialects, is a Tibetan breed that has graced ancient palaces for over a millennium. Notable for their beautiful, flamboyant double coat, which is often groomed to reach the floor, they require daily brushing and maintenance. The breed is a complex mix of temperament, though they all share affectionate, outgoing personalities.

19. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Also known as Blenheims, these sweet, gentle noblemen have dual appeal as either a toy or athletic dog, always up for some playtime or an impromptu squirrel chase. And they readily adopt their owner’s lifestyle, whether it be sporty and active or just lazing around the house. A King Cav famously starred in TV’s Sex in the City as Charlotte’s elegant pooch, Elizabeth Taylor.

18. Miniature Schnauzer

Friendly and intelligent, and relatively young as a breed, it outranks the standard Schnauzer in popularity. These pint-sized Schnauzers hail from late-19th century Germany and are readily identifiable by their long beard, voluminous leggings, and a legendary walrus mustache.

17. Australian Shepherd

This cowboy’s companion has made its presence very well known in rodeos as one of the world’s best herders. Their name is a misnomer as all evidence points to American heritage.

16. Doberman Pinscher

Loyal, noble, fierce, and fearless, the Doberman was first bred by a tax collector as an intelligent and intimidating dog to protect himself while soliciting payments at night. It worked!

15. Pembroke Welsh Corgi

The increasingly popular Corgi is a champion herder and a common sight on sheep farms across the British Isles. Among the friendliest of small breeds, these spirited pooches appear to be always smiling. The Queen Mum (Elizabeth II) has long been associated with her brood of adorable Corgis, now in their tenth generation originating from Susan, a gift for the young princess on her 18th birthday in 1944.

14. Great Dane

As epitomized by cartoon icon Scooby-Doo, the great Dane’s formidable size belies a big sweetheart. What’s more, the first breeds were not actually from Denmark but Germany, where they were bred to be a veritable über-hund to help hunt wild boars.

13. Dachshund

German for “Badger dog,” the low-slung weiners were purpose-built to flush out badgers from their burrows. Clever and courageous, these lovable, alert stars of the canine world make perfect household companions.

12. Siberian Husky

With their stunning, deep blue eyes, these dogs of the frozen tundra most resemble their lupine ancestors than any other canine, save for the larger, related Alaskan Malamute. Despite its fearsome appearance, the Husky’s inherent friendliness makes them ineffective as watchdogs.

11. Boxer

The all-American Boxer shares an athleticism with their human namesake. Despite being bred for service in warfare as early as 2000 B.C.E. in Assyria and named for a violent sport, the modern American Boxer is a lover, not a fighter.

10. German Shorthaired Pointer

The “Perfect Pointer” is known as a jack-of-all-trades. Pointers get their name from striking a pose by keeping a direct gaze and lifting one paw to signal the location of prey to their fellow human hunters.

9. Yorkshire Terrier

Small but fierce, Yorkies were used during hunts to flush prey out of its den. ‘Smoky,’ a famous war dog of WW II was able to run through pipes and string communication wires under a former Japanese airstrip so soldiers would not have to expose themselves to enemy fire. She served in 12 missions and earned 8 battle stars, plus a monument in Cleveland, Ohio.

8. Rottweiler

A descendant of the ancient Roman army, and renowned for exceptional intelligence and guarding instincts. As the legions conquered faraway lands, they traveled with herds of cattle for sustenance, which the dogs corralled and protected from robbers and wild animals. These drover dogs remained long after the soldiers were driven out of what is today southern Germany. The breed remained in use as herders and as “metzgerhund,” guardians of butcher deliveries in the Middle Ages in the town of Rottweil. Their numbers diminished nearly to the point of extinction with the advent of railroads. Demand for service dogs during World War I stimulated a revival where Rottweilers served as messengers, draught, and guard dogs.

7. Poodle

The aristocrats of the canine kingdom, poodles come in every size from toy and miniature to standard. One of the most intelligent breeds, these proud, athletic canines are excellent swimmers, once used for bird hunting. The traditional grooming style, like the pompons around the ankles, actually served the purpose of protecting joints and vital organs from freezing water.

6. Beagle

Slotting in at number 5 is the merry, playful Beagle. They’re so ancient that we can’t be certain of their origin. What we do know is that they were a personal favorite of Queen Elizabeth I and, of course, for legions of fox hunters all over Britain. Interestingly, their name is derived from the French term for “loudmouth,” no doubt for their prolific barking, useful in tracking prey.

5. Bulldog

Unlike its smaller French cousin, standard Bulldogs were bred for the sport of bullbaiting. With unmitigated ferocity and seemingly impervious to pain, packs of bulldogs fought with bulls in 13th-century England while spectators placed their bets on the winner. Despite their legacy as little terrors, today bulldogs are classified by the American Kennel Club as friendly, courageous, and calm.

4. French Bulldog

Frenchies have clawed their way to become among the most popular breeds in the world. Despite their appellation, they come from England, bred to be a more companion-friendly Bulldog. Sweet though they are, cross-breeding has had consequences as most have trouble swimming and often require assistance reproducing.

3. Golden Retriever

They may be golden otherwise, but here they take the bronze. Cheerful, easy to train, and eager to please, the Golden Retriever is the dictionary definition of the perfect family dog. A Dallas Golden Retriever named Augie holds the world record for holding an astonishing 5 tennis balls held in its mouth at once!

2. German Shepherd

There was no doubt that Shepherds would rank high on our list. They have a dedicated and proud history of police and military work and were the first breed to be deployed as service dogs. Motivated by a strong sense of purpose, they’ll do anything for the masters they serve. In their native German, “Schutzhund,” literally translates to protection dog.

1. Labrador Retriever

The top dog needs no introduction. Labrador Retrievers have consistently been the most popular breed year after year and, with their endlessly exuberant demeanor, it’s easy to see why Labs reign as the all-time favorite family dog.