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Dog Breeds A to Z

Please let me know if I have forgotten any dog breeds that begin with the letter A.  you know of any, please use the Contact Me form at the bottom of the page to provide the name of the breed. 

If it happens to be the breed of your dog, please accept my apologies in advance!

Dog Breeds A to Z List
- Starting with A

Aidi
(aka Atlas Mountain Dog)

Origins:  Morocco
Size:  Large
Grooming:  Moderate
Training: Average
Recognition:  FCI:  Group 2,  UKC:  Guardian

The Aidi is a livestock guardian dog that has also been used for hunting, as it has a good nose for scent tracking. It has also been called the Berber Dog after the nomadic Berber tribes of North Africa (Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia).

The Aidi is aloof and wary around strangers and animals it does not know. This is not an aggressive breed, but they will respond to aggression from another animal very quickly. They are very territorial, and will defend their 'home' against perceived threats.

Airedale Terrier

Origins: England
Size:  Medium
Grooming:  Moderate
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI:  Group 3, AKC:  Terriers, ANKC:  Terriers, CKC:  Terriers, KC:  Terriers, NZKC:  Terriers, UKC:  Terriers

The Airedale Terrier is brave but not aggressive. They are intelligent, independent dogs, and can be a little stubborn at times. Mischievous and comical companions, they will do their utmost to cheer you up and make you laugh.

Airedales have a great longing for affection and need to feel part of the family rather than banished outside to live alone in a kennel.

Akbash Dog

Origins:  Turkey
Size:  Giant
Grooming:  Average
Training:  Easy
Recognition: UKC:  Guardian, FCI

The Akbash dog is originally from Turkey. This breed is an alert, courageous, independent guardian that is happiest on the farm, guarding livestock. They have the speed of a sight hound and the power of a guardian coupled with elegance and grace.

They have a strong protective instinct, loyalty, and intelligence, but they are also very independently minded, which means they often act alone without the guidance of humans. They are very protective of their home and family, which means that they may be dangerous to anyone outside the family.

Akita
(a.k.a. American Akita)

Origins:  Japan & United States
Size:  Large
Grooming:  Time Consuming
Training:  Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI:  5, AKC:  Working, ANKC:  Utility, CKC:  Working, KC:  Utility, NZKC:  Utility, UKC:  Northern Breed

The American Akita’s origins are, ironically, not in America. Instead, the American is a larger dog and slightly differs in physical appearance compared to the japanese akita.

The Akita Inu would be considered the Japanese type of this breed. These dogs have held a place in Japan as an ordinary working dog for hundreds of years, having originated in Japan’s northern mountains.

Dog Breeds A to Z

Akita Inu (a.k.a.Japanese Inu)

Origins:  Japan
Size:  Large
Grooming:  Time Consuming
Training:  Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI:  5, AKC:  Working, ANKC:  Utility, CKC:  Working, KC:  Utility, NZKC:  Utility, UKC:  Northern Breed

Akita Inu dogs are strong, independent and dominant. They can be  aloof with strangers but affectionate and loving with family members. They are not for the novice dog owner and require strong handling.

The Akita dog breed can be aggressive towards other dogs yet gentle, compassionate and trusting with their owners.

Alaskan Klee Kai

Origins:  The United States
Size:  Small, Medium, or Large
Grooming:  Average
Training:  Average
Recognition: UKC:  Northern Breeds

You may have heard of the Alaskan Klee Kai, but you probably haven't seen one; they are relatively rare, and were only recognized by the AKC in 1997. With the Alaskan Husky as a forebear, the Alaskan Klee Kai belongs to the Spitz family of dogs.

It is significantly smaller than the Husky, however, and many people think it is still a puppy, even when fully-grown.

Alaskan Malamute

Origins:  The United States
Size:  Giant
Grooming:  Time Consuming
Training:  Average
Recognition: FCI:  Group 5, AKC:  Working, ANKC:  Utility, CKC:  Working, KC: Working, NZKC:  Utility, UKC:  Northern Breeds

The Alaskan Malamute is an active, loyal breed that loves to be with its family. These dogs are hardworking and have plenty of energy to play or exert through heavy exercise.

Their energetic personality is important to be taken into consideration when getting one, as they will get into some bad habits if they are allowed to stay cramped up in their home.

Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog

Origins:  The United States
Size:Large
Grooming: Minimal
Training: Easy
Recognition:  None

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog has a fantastic temperament and gets on extremely well with children, although they can be a little aloof at times. They are a loyal breed who also make brilliant guard and companion dogs.

If raised correctly, your ABBB will be a wonderful companion who will protect you and your family only when required and without any undue aggression towards strangers or other dogs.

Alentejo Mastiff
(a.k.a. Portuguese Mastiff, Rafeiro do Alentejo)

Origins:  Portugal
Size: Giant
Grooming: Easy
Training: Challenging
Recognition: FCI:  Group 2, UKC:  Guardian

This is a big dog that excels at guarding things. They have a calm, slightly grumpy demeanor, but are gentle giants around their home and family. They have an independent nature and can be difficult to train.

Alpine Dachsbracke

Origin:  Austria
Size: Medium
Grooming: Minimal
Training: Average
Recognition:
      FCI:  Group 6,
      UKC:  Scenthound

The Alpine Dachsbracke is a scent hound originally from Austria. They were bred to follow a scent of wounded game in the alpine scrublands. This is a friendly, amiable breed that gets on well with kids and other dogs, but has a string prey drive for smaller animals and pets. They need frequent exercise, but are easy to train and groom.

American Bulldog

Origins:  The United States
Size: Large to Giant
Grooming: Easy
Training:  Average
Recognition: UKC:  Guardian

The American Bulldog is considered one of many different "bully" breeds, each of which is unique to some degree.

All bulldog breeds are descended from a deliberate mix of bull baiting dogs that were selected for the endurance, strength, and toughness. 

Dog Breeds A to Z

American Black & Tan Coonhound 
(a.k.a. Black & Tan Coonhound)

Origins:  The United States
Size: Large
Grooming: Easy
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI:  Group 6, AKC:  Hounds, CKC:  Hounds, NZKC:  Hounds, UKC:  Scenthounds

The American Black and Tan Coonhound is a friendly, easygoing dog that belongs to the Hound group of dog breeds. Originally bred to hunt Raccoon, they are tenacious when on the trail but laid-back and relaxed at home.

These are large, athletic dogs that cover difficult ground quickly with a sure-footed, easy stride.

American Cocker Spaniel
(a.k.a. Cocker Spaniel)

Origins:  The United States
Size: Small to Medium
Grooming:  Time Consuming
Training:  Easy
Recognition: FCI:  Group 8, AKC:  Sporting, ANKC: Gundog, CKC:  Sporting, KC:  Gundog, NZKC:  Gundog, UKC:  Gundog

The American Cocker Spaniel is the smallest member of the gun dog group and is a lively, playful popular pet for families with children. They are extremely friendly although they can throw the odd strop if they don't get enough attention.

They adore human company and will follow you around constantly and want to lay on your lap for cuddles. Their favorite thing to do is try to please their master and will bring “presents” to anyone and everyone to make them happy.

American Dingo
(aka Carolina Dog)

Origins:  U.S.A.
Size: Medium
Grooming: Easy
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition:  UKC (Sighthound & Pariah)

A breed with Asian roots, crossing into North America thousands of years ago and becoming a feral dog centered around the Carolinas.

The American Dingo (or Carolina Dog) is listed by the American Kennel Club under the Sight Hound dog group. It's origins are unclear, but it is believed that they have roots in Asia, and migrated across the Bering Sea land bridge between Russia and Alaska thousands of years ago.

In more recent times they lived wild along the border between Georgia and South Carolina, giving rise to the name 'Carolina Dog'.

American Eskimo Dog

Origins:  Germany
Size: Small to Medium
Grooming:  Time Consuming
Training: Easy
Recognition: AKC:  Non-sporting, CKC:  Non-sporting, UKC:  Northern Breeds

The American Eskimo Dog is a smart, affectionate pet that loves to be around its family. They are playful and energetic without being too rambunctious.

These dogs are small enough to live in apartments, so long as they get ample exercise. This being said, they are not best for owners who will not be home for most of the day, as they are prone to separation anxiety and will bark as a result.

American Foxhound

Origins:  The United States
Size:Medium to Large
Grooming: Easy
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI:  Group 6, AKC:  Hounds, CKC:  Hounds, UKC:  Scenthounds

The American Foxhound is a medium-size dog of the Hound Group, hunting by scent. They are related to the English Foxhound, but are significantly taller.

American President George Washington played a significant role in developing the breed, using English and French stock to help develop this distinctive American dog

American Hairless Terrier

Origins:  The United States
Size: Small
Grooming: Easy
Training: Average
Recognition: AKC:  FSS,  UKC:  Terrier

The American Hairless is a small dog of the Terrier Group weighing just 12 to 16lbs, with a feisty nature. The breed actually has hairless and coated variations. The hairless dog is hypoallergenic, but has a few issues that potential owners should be aware of.

With no normal coat to protect the skin, they may get sunburned if out in bright sun for too long. At the other extreme, they lose body heat quickly if out in the cold, and need a dog jacket to keep them warm and prevent hypothermia.

Dog Breeds A to Z

American Pit Bull Terrier

Origins:  United States
Size: Varies
Grooming: Minimal
Training: Average
Recognition: UKC:  Terriers

To someone who doesn’t know much about these dogs, they would just call them pit bulls, but are they truly different breeds? 

Some say yes and some no…

American Leopard Hound
(a.k.a. Catahoula leopard dog,  Catahoula hog dog,
Catahoula Cur,  Catahoula hound,  Leopard Dogs,  Leopard Cur)

Origins:  United States
Size: Large
Grooming: Minimal
Training: average
Recognition:
      AKC:  FSS,
      UKC:  Herding

The Catahoula Leopard dog is a sturdy and strong farm dog. It gets it's name from the Catahoula Lake area of Louisiana, and 'catahoula' is native American Choctaw language for 'sacred lake'.

This is the only dog breed to have originated in Louisiana, and they were used for hunting and herding swamp pig (hogs).

American Staffordshire Terrier

Origins:  United States
Size: Medium
Grooming: Minimal
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI:  Group 3, AKC:  Terriers, ANKC:  Terriers, CKC:  Terriers, NZKC:  Terriers

To some, the American Staffordshire Terrier means only one thing - - PIT BULL - - and with that comes all the negative propaganda that has spread throughout the news at every level, prompting breed bands and high insurance rates.

To many, all they see is a vicious fighting dog that should be banned if not destroyed.  Just how much of this rhetoric is accurate of this breed? It is true that the American Staffordshire Terrier has suffered and gained a bad reputation. However, while they are strong, powerful, and courageous, they are not vicious.

American Water Spaniel

Origins:  The United States
Size: Medium
Grooming: Time-consuming
Training:  Easy
Recognition: FCI:  Group 3, AKC:  Sporting, CKC:  Sporting, UKC:  Gundog

A strong and muscular small gun dog from the Great Lakes of the USA. This breed of Water Spaniel can be recognized by its glossy dark chestnut coat.

They are built for cold water, and are extremely agile, being able to jump out of a small boat without disturbing it.

Anatolian Shepherd
(a.k.a. Anatolian Blackhead Anadolulu Karabaş)

Origins:  Turkey
Size:Large to Giant
Grooming: Average
Training: Demanding
Recognition: FCI:  Group 2, AKC:  Working, ANKC:  Utility, CKC:  Working, KC:  Pastoral, NZKC:  Working, UKC:  Guardian

Kangal dogs are originally from the Anatolia region of Turkey. They were bred to be livestock guardian dogs, protecting flocks of sheep and goats at night from wolves, jackals and bears.

There is an important distinction between dogs that help a shepherd to herd animals, ie. move a flock from place to place, and dogs that protect the animals.

Anglo-Franḉais de Petite Venerie

Origins: France
Size: Medium
Grooming: Minimal
Training: Easy
Recognition: FCI:  Group 6, UKC:  Scenthounds

Appenzeller Sennenhund
(Appenzell Cattle Dog,  Appenzeller Mountain Dog)

Origins:  Switzerland
Size: Large
Grooming: Minimal
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI:  Group 2, AKC:  FSS, UKC:  Guardian

Originally bred to herd cattle and guard livestock, this breed is still rare outside of Switzerland. They are alert and wary of strangers, but make great family pets. They need a lot of exercise to keep them happy, and are not really suited to apartment or urban living.

Ariégeois

Origins:  France
Size: Large
Grooming: Minimal
Training: Easy
Recognition: FCI:  Group 6, UKC:  Scenthound

Australian Cattle Dog
(a.k.a. Blue Heeler, Red Heeler, Queensland Heeler)

Origins:  Australia
Size: Medium
Grooming: Minimal
Training:  Average
Recognition: FCI:  Group 1, AKC:  Herding, ANKC:  Working, CKC:  Herding, KC:  Pastoral, NZKC:  Working, UKC:  Herding

The Australian Blue Heeler dog breed is also known as the Queensland Heeler or the Australian Cattle Dog. The breed was created in the second half of the 19th century by Australian cattle breeders who wanted a tough dog to help them herd cattle over the vast ranches and spaces.

They used Dingos tamed by Aboriginals and crossed them with imported European sheepdogs.

Australian Dingo

Origins:  Australia
Size: Medium
Grooming:  Minimal
Training:  Difficult
Recognition:  None

The Australian Museum identifies the Australian Dingo as Canis lupus dingo, as opposed to the domestic dog which is Canis lupus familiaris, and the Wolf, which is Canis lupus lupus.

It has it's roots in the south Asian Grey Wolf, and is believed to have arrived in Australia around 5,000 years ago, with Asian sea traders. It's believed that humans first arrived in Australia around 30,000 years ago, so the Dingo arrived much later, not with the original migrants.

Australian Kelpie

Origins:  Australia
Size:  Medium
Grooming:  Minimal
Training:  Average
Recognition: FCI:  Group 1, ANKC:  Working, CKC:  Herding, NZKC:  Working, UKC:  Herding

Australian Shepherd

Origins:  United States
Size: Medium to Large
Grooming: Average
Training:  Easy
Recognition: FCI:  Group 1, AKC:  Herding, ANKC:  Working, CKC:  Herding, KC:  Pastoral, NZKC:  Working, UKC:  Herding

This is a very active breed, and if you are looking for a pet to keep you young and on your toes, look no further than this exuberant Australian.

'Aussies' are best suited for people that are regularly active and have an on-the-go type lifestyle.

This is the kind of dog that needs regular exercise due to their intense herding instincts, and if that area is lacking, it can lead to an array of undesirable behavior issues that is not generally associated with a happy, healthy Aussie.

Australian Silky Terrier
(a.k.a. Silky Terrier)

Origins:  Australia
Size: Small
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Easy
Recognition: FCI:  Group 3, AKC:  Toys, ANKC:  Toys, CKC:  Toys, KC:  Toys, NZKC:  Toys, UKC:  Terrier

The Silky Terrier comes from Australia, and at first glance you may mistake it for a Yorkshire terrier. While the 'Yorkie' certainly played a role in the development of the Silky, they are quite distinct breeds, with the Silky terrier being larger.

Although this breed is known as the 'Silky Terrier' in the USA, it is known as the 'Australian Silky Terrier' in every other country of the World.

Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog 
(a.k.a. Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog)

Origins:  Australia
Size:
Grooming:
Training:
Recognition: FCI:  Group 1, ANKC:  Working, CKC:  Herding,

NZKC:  Working, UKC:  Herding

Australian Terrier

Origins:  Australia
Size:  Small
Grooming: Average
Training:  Easy
Recognition: FCI:  Group 3,AKC:  Terriers, ANKC:  Terriers,CKC:  Terriers, KC:  Terriers, NZKC:  Terriers, UKC:  Terriers

Austrian Black & Tan Hound

Origins: Austria
Size:Medium
Grooming:  Minimal
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI:  Group 6, UKC:  Scenthound

Austrian Pinscher

Origins:  Austria
Size: Medium
Grooming: Minimal
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI:  Group 2, UKC:  Terrier

Azawakh

Origins: West Africa
Size: Large
Grooming:  Minimal
Training:  Average
Recognition: FCI:  Group 10, AKC:  FSS, ANKC:  Hounds, KC:  Hounds, NZKC:  Hounds, UKC: Sighthounds. Pariahs

The Azawakh is sometimes mistaken for the Sloughi or even a Greyhound, but this is a separate breed from the Southern Sahara/West Africa region. They are rare outside of their home country, although they DO exist in many countries of the world.

They have a slim, rangy build, with clearly visible muscles and bones. Some owners have been accused of underfeeding their dogs!

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