While dogs, as we know them today, are all ancestors of the wolf, different countries have carefully selected certain traits to create numerous different breeds. Just because some breeds were created in the same country, however, does not necessarily mean they will share the same traits. For example, American breeds look wildly different from one another in shape, size, and color! So here’s a list of American dog breeds that are not only unique but that will also steal your heart!
Alaskan Malamute
As their name suggests, the Alaskan Malamute hails from the harsh and punishing cold of Alaska. This is a large, muscular dog that was bred to pull sleds. Their dense coat is excellent for keeping them warm. This breed is extremely intelligent. However, the Alaskan Malamute has a bit of an independent streak, which can make them difficult to train.
Rat Terrier
While we don’t know the exact origins of this breed’s name, some suggest that its name was created by none other than Teddy Roosevelt! This small breed is tough and compact, making it perfectly built for hunting rats. This dog was essential on any American farm, where they were used as watchdogs, hunting partners, and playful companions.
American Hairless Terrier
The American Hairless Terrier is a hairless breed that is always on the lookout. This energetic dog loves to play and is extremely loyal to its owners. Despite their name, some American Hairless Terriers have a coat of short fur. If you choose to adopt a hairless variety, you will be pleased to find that it is hypo-allergenic, making this breed a great choice for dog-lovers with allergies.
Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is one of those classic American dogs. One of the most distinctive traits of this dog is that its coat is wavy, giving it a beautiful and unique appearance. This breed is a go-to for many hunters, as they are intelligent and usually quite easy to train. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever can also excel as a watchdog or even just as a loving companion.
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is the perfect dog for an apartment. This breed is small and sturdy, enjoys the company of people, and is gentle by nature, making it well-suited to life in the city. The Boston Terrier has alert, triangular ears and a square face. Their coat is short and dense, and their black and white coloration looks just like it is wearing a tuxedo!
Boykin Spaniel
The Boykin Spaniel has a curly, deep brown coat and large, fluffy ears. They were bred as hunting companions, particularly for the waterfowl that live near lakes. As a result, the Boykin Spaniel is an excellent swimmer. However, this friendly breed also makes a wonderful companion at home.
Australian Shepherd
Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd was actually bred in California! Also known affectionately as “Aussies,” Australian Shepherds are the dog of choice for any cowboys or animal herders. They have a distinctive mottled coat and long, thick fur. This energetic and intelligent dog needs plenty of enrichment to stay happy, so they do best in an active home.
Black and Tan Coonhound
The Black and Tan Coonhound is a lovable American hound with a sweet, gentle temperament. They have long, soft ears and a soulful look in their eyes.
While they enjoy spending time lying around the house, Black and Tan Coonhounds are also notorious for running after anything exciting. These dogs are not for the faint of heart, but if you have the patience for their spontaneous bursts of energy, then this dog could be perfect for you!
Catahoula Leopard Dog
The Catahoula Leopard Dog thrives best with owners who have previous experience with dogs. This is an independent and territorial breed that can become aggressive if not well-socialized at a young age. However, if they have been properly trained, Catahoula Leopard Dogs can become some of the most fiercely loyal dog breeds in the world.
American Bulldog
The American Bulldog is a highly capable hunting, farm, and protection dog that evolved from the Old English Bulldog in the southern United States. It is particularly well-known for its skill and power as a catch dog when hunting wild boar.
There are several different varieties of the breed including the heavily built Johnson type, Scott (or performance type), Painter, Old Southern White, along with the Hybrid American Bulldog (which is a mixture of these types).
American Pitbull Terrier
While today it is mainly a companion the American Pitbull Terrier is a working breed that was created for the purpose of hunting and dog fighting. The American Pitbull Terrier is a medium-sized dog with males typically weighing sixty pounds at the most, and females generally not exceeding fifty.
This is a breed that is extremely athletic, loyal, and tough as nails. At the same time, it is also gentle with people and particularly children. Because of this trait, in the past, it was widely known as the “nanny dog” in the United States.
American Staffordshire Terrier
Also called the AmStaff for short, the American Staffordshire Terrier shares its roots with the American Pitbull Terrier. However, the breeds diverged as the American Staffordshire Terrier was bred for a more strict appearance while the American Pitbull Terrier was bred for its working ability and gameness.
Today the Amstaff is recognized by the AKC while the American Pitbull Terrier is not. This is a stocky and powerful dog that comes in every coat color.
American Foxhound
A descendant of the English Foxhound, this American dog breed was created to be both a lighter and faster dog. Like other hounds, it has a loud bark, although the American Foxhound’s bark is considered to be much more pleasing to the ear. This is a high-energy hunter that requires a lot of exercise and patience when training.
Carolina Dog
The Carolina Dog is a breed that looks like a dingo, in fact, it looks so similar that it is also called the American Dingo. Its appearance is sometimes compared to that of a jackal or a wolf as well. This is a primitive breed of dog that can still be found living in wild packs in isolated areas of the southeastern United States.
Blue Lacy Dog
The Blue Lacy Dog is one of the most lovable American dog breeds. They became the official state dog of Texas in 2005, and their popularity has soared ever since. This is an energetic dog breed that is both intelligent and easy to train. While not for novice owners, life with a Blue Lacy is sure to be rewarding.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Rottweiler Facts And Information
The Rottweiler is an obedient and brave dog. And there’s a lot you’ll want to know about this natural guardian. So here are the top Rottweiler facts and information. German Butcher Dog This breed gets its name from its place of origin, the town of Rottweil in Germany....
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Facts
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a lively and outgoing dog. And there’s a lot you’ll want to know about this toy breed. So here are the top Cavalier King Charles Spaniel facts. Named After A King This breed’s unusual name comes from the fact that a royal was one...
English Springer Spaniel Facts
The English Springer Spaniel is a cheerful and devoted hunting dog. And there’s a lot you’ll want to know about this mild-mannered breed. So here are the top English Springer Spaniel facts. Named For Its Job The breed gets its name from its job as a hunting dog. It...
Basset Hound Facts And Information
The Basset Hound is a friendly hunter with a unique physical appearance. And there’s a lot you’ll want to know about this low-to-the-ground breed. So here are the top Basset Hound facts and information. An Appropriate Name The name Basset Hound comes from the breed’s...
English Bulldog Facts And Information
The English Bulldog is a loyal and good-natured dog. And there’s a lot you’ll want to learn about this wrinkly breed. So here are the top English Bulldog facts and information. Fighting Past The English Bulldog was originally developed for the cruel sport of...
Golden Retriever Facts And Information
The Golden Retriever is without a doubt one of the most popular dogs in the world. And there’s a lot you’ll want to know about this sweet-tempered and lovable breed. So here are the top Golden Retriever facts and information. Thank You Lord Tweedmouth The Golden...
Labrador Retriever Facts And Information
The Labrador Retriever is a popular pet around the globe that has exceptional retrieving skills on both land and water. There’s a lot you’ll want to know about this famous and sweet-tempered breed. So here’s the top Labrador Retriever facts and information. Canadian...
Pomeranian Facts And Information
The Pomeranian is a fluffy and charismatic little canine. And there is a lot you’ll want to know about this extremely popular small breed. So here are the top Pomeranian facts. The Pooch From Pomerania The Pomeranian is named for its home country, Pomerania. However...
German Shorthaired Pointer Facts
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile hunter that’s easily trained. And there’s a lot you’ll want to know about this intelligent breed. So here are the top German Shorthaired Pointer facts. Well-Rounded German Native This dog was developed in Germany as a...
Jack Russell Terrier Facts And Info
The Jack Russell Terrier is well-known for its fiery temperament yet small stature. There’s a lot you’ll want to learn about this energetic and oftentimes amusing breed. So here are the top Jack Russell Terrier facts. Named For Its Creator This breed is named for the...
Siberian Husky Facts And Information
The Siberian Husky is a sociable and affectionate sled dog with a strong will. And there’s a lot you’ll want to know about this breed. So here are the top Siberian Husky facts and information. The Look Of The Wild The Siberian Husky is famous for its wolf-like looks....
French Bulldog Facts And Info
The French Bulldog, also called the “Frenchie,” by its fans is best described as an affectionate companion with a goofball personality. There’s a lot you’ll want to know about this special breed. So here are the top French Bulldog facts. Bat Ears One of the most...
Maltese Facts And Information
The Maltese is a devoted and attractive companion in a small package. There’s a lot you’ll want to know about this special breed. So here are some fascinating Maltese facts and information for you to read and enjoy. Developed On Malta The name Maltese comes from the...
Bull Terrier Facts And Info
The muscular and often clownish Bull Terrier has one of the most distinct appearances and temperaments of all dogs. There’s a lot you’ll want to know about this one-of-a-kind breed. So here are the top Bull Terrier facts. Part Bulldog And Part Terrier The Bull Terrier...
Shetland Sheepdog Facts
Also commonly known as the “Sheltie”, the Shetland Sheepdog is a lively and affectionate dog that’s reserved with strangers. There’s a lot you’ll want to know about this one-of-a-kind breed. So here are the top Shetland Sheepdog facts. Scottish Native The Shetland...
Dalmatian Facts And Information
With its spots, the Dalmatian is easily one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world. And there’s a lot you’ll want to know about this one-of-a-kind breed. So here are the most interesting Dalmatian facts and information. Carriage Dog In the past, before the...
Mexican Dog Breeds
There aren’t nearly as many breeds of dogs from Mexico as there are from other countries. However, the handful that did originate there are truly unique. And with this Mexican dog breeds list, you can quickly get to know each one of these special dogs. Chihuahua The...
Irish Dog Breeds
Ireland has produced some of the most amazing breeds of dogs on the planet. Ranging from small to the tallest dog of them all, the canines of the “Emerald Isle,” are a unique bunch. And this Irish dog breeds list will give you the basics of each. Glen Of Imaal Terrier...
Japanese Dog Breeds
Ridgeback Dog Breeds
Almost all dogs have a coat that grows in one direction. However, there are a few special dog breeds that have a ridge that runs along their back and grows in the opposite direction to the rest of their coat. Here’s your guide to the ridgeback dog breeds. Thai...