Your dog breeds list S includes all the dog breeds in the world beginning with the letter S .
Scroll down to see photos and descriptions. As pages are completed, you will be able to read more about the breed, or browse an interview by a breed owner.
If I forgot an important breed, please let us know.
Dog Breeds A to Z List – Starting with S
Saarloos Wolfhound, Saarloos Wolfdog
Origins: Netherlands & Germany
Size: Large
Grooming: Average
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 1, UKC: Herding
Unlike the Irish Wolfhound, for example, the Saarloos Wolfhound (or Wolfdog) was never used for hunting wolves. Instead, the breed is the result of crossing a German Shepherd with a Eurasian Gray Wolf.
The resulting dogs were bred with German Shepherds again, but the final breed has not been useful as a working dog, as it retains too much independence from it’s Wolf heritage. It is rarely seen outside the Netherlands, and is really only suited rural situations where it has room to move; In this setting it is an excellent companion dog.
Sage Koochee
Origins: Afghanistan
Size: Large
Grooming: Average
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: None in the West
The Sage Koochee is a loyal, intelligent breed with unrivaled stamina, courage and strength who has been bred as a guardian and protector. He is athletic, agile and very fast. These dogs were bred for their characteristics rather than how they looked which is why they are not recognized as an official breed by any Kennel Clubs in the West.
Also known by their Persian name of Sage Kuchi or just “Kuchi Dog“, he is not suitable for usual life in a Western home. This is because the Sage Koochee was bred by the Afghan Nomads to protect their livestock and caravans from thieves and wild animals.
Saint Bernard
Origins: Switzerland
Size: Giant
Grooming: Average
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 2, AKC: Working, ANKC: Utility, CKC: Working, KC: Working, NZKC: Utility, UKC: Guardian
The Saint Bernard is essentially the definition of a gentle giant. These large beasts are known for their size as well as calm behavior. Not only does this make them an easy breed to own, but ideal for more chaotic households. These dogs make great, gregarious companions, if not a little slow.
The Saint Bernard breed is an excellent choice for families. They love it when they are with others, and their gentle, tolerant nature makes them great for kids.
Guests will also feel welcomed into the home by these dogs, often eliminating any second thoughts about whether or not the breed is aggressive. Smaller children are at a distinct risk, however, due to the dog’s size, and should be watched while playing.
Saluki
Origins: Middle East
Size: Medium to Large
Grooming: Easy
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 10, AKC: Hound, ANKC: Hound, CKC: Hound, KC: Hound, NZKC: Hound, UKC: Sighthound and Pariah
The Saluki dog breed (or Persian Hound) is a sight hound, which means it hunts mainly by sight rather than scent. This breed shares several characteristics with other sight hounds, such as the Afghan Hound and the North African Sloughi. They can appear to be independent, and may be reserved around strangers at first.
Saluki dogs are intelligent, and can become bored easily if they are left alone, or given simple tasks to do like fetch a ball or stick. As a result of its hunting background, it would much rather chase something, and it will tend to go after anything else that is running.
Samoyed
Origins: Russian
Size: Large
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Easy
Recognition: FCI: Group 5, AKC: Working, ANKC: Utility, CKC: Working, KC: Pastoral, NZKC: Utility, UKC: Northern Breeds
This is a breed that is adaptable, friendly, and overall outgoing and playful. Samoyeds make excellent pets for nearly everyone, considering they even get along extremely well with small children and other dogs. Sammies belong to the Working Group according to AKC and were developed to be sled dogs.
This breed can show characteristics of their sled dog heritage. They are not shy when it comes to pulling things, and will need to be trained at an early age to walk on a leash unless you want your Sammie to be walking you by the leash instead of the other way around.
Sarplaninac
Also Called, Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog –
Macedonian Sheepdog, Illyrian Shepherd Dog, Illyrian Sheepdog)
Origins: Macedonia / Serbia / Kosovo
Size: Large
Grooming: Average
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 2, CKC: Miscellaneous, UKC: Guardian
Schapendoes
Also called Dutch Sheepdog
Origins: The Netherlands
Size: Medium
Grooming: Average
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 1, CKC: Herding, UKC: Herding
Looking a little bit like a cross between the Old English Sheepdog and the Bearded Collie, this breed from the Netherlands (Holland), and has been around since late 1800’s, when they were quite common in that country. It is a medium-sized dog with a long, shaggy coat, amiable and good-natured.
They do well with older children who can throw a ball and teach the dog new tricks. This breed is smart, and will learn quickly, but they tend to work with their owner rather than obey their owner. They are generally quiet dogs, and rarely bark unless excited or alerting you to a situation.
Schiller Hound
Also Called Schiller Hound
Origins: Sweden
Size: Small
Grooming: Easy
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 1, UKC: Scenthound
Schipperke
Origins: Belgium
Size: Small
Grooming: Easy
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 1, AKC: Non-sporting, ANKC: Non-sporting, CKC: Non-sporting, KC: Utility, NZKC: Non-sporting, UKC: Companion
Schnauzer
Origins: Belgium
Size: Small
Grooming: Easy
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 1, AKC: Non-sporting, ANKC: Non-sporting, CKC: Non-sporting, KC: Utility, NZKC: Non-sporting, UKC: Companion
Schnauzer
Origins: Germany
Size: 3 Sizes: Miniature, Standard, Giant
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Average
Recognition: Miniature: FCI: Group 2; AKC: Terrier; ANKC: Utility CKC: Terriers KC (UK): Utility; NZKC: Utility UKC: Terrier
Recognition: Standard & Giant Schnauzer: FCI: Group 2; AKC: Working; ANKC: Utility; CKC: Working Dogs; KC (UK): Utility; NZKC: Utility; UKC: Curing (Standard); Guarding: Giant
The Miniature Schnauzer is most common of the Schnauzers, for many reasons. Owners enjoy their affectionate and loyal personalities, which is paired with their playful energy. Their intelligence makes them responsive and quick learners.
These dogs are known to be reasonably good with kids. The Miniature Schnauzer’s size makes it less likely to injure small children and much less intimidating. Children also enjoy the playfulness and energy of the dog.
Schweizer Laufhund – Swiss Running Dog
Also Called Swiss Hound
Origins: Switzerland
Size: Medium
Grooming: Easy
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 6
There are four types of Swiss Hounds: Schwyz Hound (pictured above), Bernese Hound, Lucerne Hound and Jura Hound.
Scottish Deerhound
Origins: Scotland
Size: Giant
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 10, AKC: Hound, ANKC: Hounds, CKC: Hounds, KC: Hounds, NZKC: Hounds, UKC: Sighthound & Pariah
The Scottish Deerhound is one of the world’s largest breeds, almost as tall as the Irish Wolfhound. It is tall and rangy, with a short but shaggy coat giving it an unkempt look. This is a very old breed, used by Scotlands’ clan chiefs to hunt and bring down big Red Deer, which could weigh up to 400lbs
This is a breed that is placid, friendly and gentle. They are keen to please their human family, and they are good family dogs. While very good and patient with children, their sheer size and weight may intimidate or knock over a small child by accident.
Scottish Terrier
Origins: Scotland
Size: Small
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition :, FCI: Group 3, AKC: Terriers, ANKC: Terriers, CKC: Terriers, KC: Terriers, NZKC: Terriers, UKC: Terriers
The “Scottie”, as they are also known, was bred to hunt small rodents, foxes and badgers in its home country of Scotland. It is believed to be the oldest British dog breed. It is one of 5 terrier breeds from Scotland, the others being the Cairn Terrier, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the Skye Terrier, and the West Highland White Terrier.
The Scottie is playful, intelligent, and has a strong independent streak in its nature. They are probably best known for their tough nature and single-minded determination. If you play a tug-of-war game with your Scottish Terrier, he will not give in no matter how long you keep going. You will abandon the game before he does!
Sealyham Terrier
Origins: Wales, U.K.
Size: Small
Grooming: Moderate
Training: Challenging
Recognition :, FCI: Group 3, AKC: Terriers, ANKC: Terriers, CKC: Terriers, KC: Terriers, NZKC: Terriers, UKC: Terriers
The Sealyham Terrier is a unique and rare dog breed that originated in Wales, U.K.. It gets its name from the home of the original breeder (John Edwardes), who lived at Sealyham House in the Welsh county of Pembrokeshire.
Like most dogs, the Sealyham likes to be with it’s owner, and forms strong bonds of affection and loyalty. However, unlike some other dog breeds, they are also happy to be left alone for periods of time, and will not usually become bored nor destructive.
Shar Pei
Origins: China
Size: Medium to Large
Grooming: Average
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition :, FCI: Group 2, AKC: Non-Sporting, ANKC: Non-Sporting, CKC: Non-Sporting, KC: Utility, NZKC: Non-Sporting , UKC: Northern Breeds
The Chinese Shar Pei is a defensive and steadfast pal, whose wrinkly skin is a distinguishing trait that catches lots of attention from those who have the opportunity to be within its presence.
This particular dog breed, which is more suspicious towards strangers than it is welcoming, needs to be introduced to social environments at a young age.
If you are searching for a dog to accompany any small children that you may have, then this breed may not be the best choice for you. Although they are playful and compassionate towards their owners, these dogs are known to have an independent character that often attempts to challenge their master’s authority.
Shetland Sheepdog
Origins: Scotland
Size: Small
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Easy
Recognition: FCI: Group 1, AKC: Herding, ANKC: Working, CKC: Herding, KC: Pastoral, NZKC: Working, UKC: Herding
The Shetland Sheepdog breed looks like a small version of the Rough Collie, and originated on the Shetland Islands, north of Scotland, the most northerly point of the United Kingdom. These dogs are bright, playful and have lots of energy. Shetland Sheepdogs are affectionately known as the ‘Sheltie’ for short.
Shetland Sheepdogs are very intelligent and smart. In a series of tests for dog intelligence, the Sheltie came 9th out of 138 breeds tested. They are not difficult to train, and pick up new commands quickly. They are cautious around strangers at first, and take a little time to get to know someone new.
Shiba Inu
Origins: Japan
Size: Small
Grooming: Average
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 5, AKC: Non-sporting, ANKC: Utility, CKC: Non-sporting, KC: Utility, NZKC: Utility, UKC: Northern Breeds
The Shiba Inu is a compact breed of loyal, determined, and alert dogs. These dogs are well known for their intelligence and are considered one of the most popular breeds in Japan. These companions have energetic personalities but do not come across as being overly hyper or boisterous and can be exceptionally quiet and calm indoors.
The Shiba is not recommended for families with very small children. They may be just a bit too much for toddlers, but may do well with older, respectful children.
The Shiba Inu is also NOT a very hospitable breed. They prefer to be with their own owners, and even then they are independent, and don’t mind being alone.
Shih Tzu
Origins: China
Size: Small
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 9, AKC: Toys, ANKC: Non-Sporting, CKC: Non-Sporting, KC: Utility, NZKC: Non-Sporting, UKC: Companion
The Shih Tzu dog breed may be just the perfect breed for you, if spunky, affectionate and playful is what you are looking for in a companion. A little larger than the typical toy dogs, and slightly thicker boned, the standard sized Shih Tzu weighs in between 9 and 16 pounds.
Shih Tzu dogs want to please and will do well with owners who are attentive, positive, patient. They have a stubborn streak in them – a “well, what’s in it for me,” attitude – so food rewards usually work well. House trainng can be difficult, and setbacks are typical. Training is best achieved if started early and consistently followed, although older dogs can be trained successfully as well.
Shikoku
Also Called Japanese Wolfdog
Origins: Japan
Size: Medium
Grooming: Average
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 5, UKC: Northern Breeds
Shiloh Shepherd
Origins: United States
Size: Large
Grooming: Average
Training: Easy
Recognition: ACA – American Canine Association, ARBA – American Rare Breeds Association, NKC – National Kennel Club, not recognized by AKC
You’ve probably heard or read about the Shiloh Shepherd dog because of it’s size and weight. But there’s more to the breed than that! This dog has been developed relatively recently in the USA by crossing a German Shepherd with an Alaskan Malamute, and to a lesser extent with some other breeds.
The intention was to correct some of the modern German Shepherd traits that have appeared over the years. This is a dog that was bred to be amiable, calm and social. For the most part, this has been successful, but it’s important to remember that there are still variations between individual dogs. Also, the Shiloh Shepherd has the German Shepherd as it’s base stock, and retains the herding and guarding instinct.
Siberian Husky
Origins: Russia
Size: Medium, to Large
Grooming: Average
Training: Average to Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 5, AKC: Working, ANKC: Utility, CKC: Working, KC: Working, NZKC: Utility, UKC: Northern Breeds
The Siberian Husky personality makes this breed a very popular dog, being ranked as the twelfth most popular dog breed according to the American Kennel Club. However Siberian Huskies are also ranked rather high as being one of the most wrongly purchased breeds, this being due to their striking appearance.
The owners then tend to end up with a poorly behaved and destructive dog, which they blame on the breed itself, instead of the mental and physical neglecting they have unknowingly shown the dog. It is VERY important to understand the Siberian Husky personality. With the correct knowledge of the Siberian Husky personality, you will discover an amazing dog that can guarantee to make you happy for as long as they possibly can.
Silky Terrier
Also Called Australian Silky Terrier
Origins: Australia
Size: Small
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 3, AKC: Toys, ANKC: Toys, CKC: Toys, KC: Toys, NZKC: Toys, UKC: Terriers
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.
This breed is alert, active, and loves to play and run around, like all terrier dogs. They need a well-fenced yard to run around in, and appreciate playing with a ball. They are intelligent, and need to be kept active to stop them from getting bored.
Skye Terrier
Origins: Scotland
Size: Small
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 3, AKC: Terrier, ANKC: Terrier, CKC: Terrier,
KC: Terrier, NZKC: Terrier, UKC: Terrier
The Skye Terrier is one of 5 terrier breeds from Scotland, the others being the Cairn Terrier, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, the Scottish Terrier, and the West Highland White Terrier. They are even-tempered and brave little dogs. They belong to the AKC Terrier group.
The Skye was bred as a hunting dog, and they still retain an inquisitive and curious nature, ready to explore any interesting smells nearby. They enjoy getting out with their owner for a walk to explore the neighborhood, to satisfy their curiosity.
Sloughi
Also Called Berber Greyhound
Origins: Morocco
Size: Large
Grooming: Minimal
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 10, AKC: FSS Hounds, ANKC: Hounds, KC: Hounds, NZKC: Hounds, UKC: Sighthound & Pariah
Slovac Cuvac
Also Called Slovensky Tchouvatch
Origins: Slovakia
Size: Large to Giant
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 1, AKC: FSS, UKC: Guardians
Slovakian Wire-haired Pointing Dog
Also Called Bohemian Wire-haired Pointing Griffon
Origins: Slovakia
Size: Large
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 7
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Origins: Ireland
Size: Medium
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 3, AKC: Terriers, ANKC: Terriers, CKC: Terriers, KC: Terriers, NZKC: Terriers, UKC: Terriers
Wheaten terriers are medium size dogs, so they need only a moderate amount of exercise. If you do not have a lot of time on your hands to exercise a dog very frequently, a wheaten terrier would be a good choice.
All wheaten terriers have a short, soft coat. They do not shed, but you need to brush a wheaten terrier if you want it to have a beautiful, healthy coat. Their coats will collect things around them and will become matted if they are not brushed and bathed regularly. The extra effort maintaining the dog’s coat is well worth not having to clean up its shed hair.
Spanish Greyhound
Also Called Galgo Español
Origins: Spain
Size: Large
Grooming: Easy
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 1: UKC: Sighthounds & Pariahs
Spanish Mastiff
Origins: Spain
Size: Giant
Grooming: Average
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition:
- FCI: Group 2
Spanish Water Dog
Origins: Spain
Size: Medium
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 8, AKC: Herding, KC: Herding, NZKC: Gun Dogs, UKC: Gun Dogs
Spinone Italino
Origins: Italy
Size: Large
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Easy
Recognition: FCI: Group 7, AKC: Sporting, ANKC: Gun Dogs, CKC: Sporting, KC: Gun Dogs, NZKC: Gun Dogs, UKC: Gun Dogs
Springer Spaniel
Also called English Springer Spaniel
Origins: England
Size: Medium to Large
Grooming: Average
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 8, AKC: Sporting, ANKC: Gundog, CKC: Sporting, KC: Gundog, NZKC: Gundog, UKC: Gundog
The English Springer Spaniel is an affectionate, sociable companion that can also serve as a working dog. The breed is well known for being smart.
These dogs are also known for their playfulness, making for a great family pet. Guests love these dogs for the warm welcome they provide upon entering a home.
These dogs are so social that they hate being left alone. Springer Spaniels are, unfortunately, a bit dependent on human company. If left alone for too long, they may indulge in some destructive behavior. They are also known to bark often when alone, so these are not great dogs for owners who are not home all day.
Stabyhoun
Origins: The Netherlands
Size: Medium
Grooming: Average
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 7, AKC: FSS
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Origins: England
Size: Medium
Grooming: Easy
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 3, AKC: Terrier, ANKC: Terrier, CKC: Terrier, KC: Terrier, NZKC: Terrier, UKC: Terrier
On January 30 2019, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier terrier was voted Britain’s favorite dog breed in a U.K. television show hosted by Ben Fogle. This result surprised many people, including Ben Fogle himself, who was sure that the Labrador Retriever would be top dog! The ‘Staffie’ has a bit of a reputation in certain circles for aggressiveness and unpredictability – but clearly a LOT of people in the U.K. love the breed.
But this breed has always been a family pet breed, even in its dog fighting past. They like being in a family situation, and are very good with children. The U.K. Kennel Club lists the Staffie as a breed suitable for families. So, in fact, this IS a big softie masquerading as a street fighter.
Standard Poodle
Origins: Germany / France
Size: Large
Grooming: Extensive
Training: Easy
Recognition: FCI: Group 9, AKC: Non-sporting, ANKC: Non-sporting, CKC: Sporting, KC: Utility, NZKC: Non-sporting, UKC: Gundog
The Poodle is a fascinating and special breed of dog for many different reasons. One of the more prominent characteristics that separate this breed from the rest of the bunch is that they are said to be the only breed that comes in three different sizes!
Standard Poodles are incredibly adaptive and well-rounded, especially when it comes to their character, and if you spend enough time with one, you will quickly see that they have many different sides to them.
Sussex Spaniel
Origins: England
Size: Medium
Grooming: Average
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 8, AKC: Sporting, ANKC: Gundog, CKC: Sporting, KC: Gundog, NZKC: Gundog, UKC: Gundog
The Sussex Spaniel is a compact, family dog whose temperament is warm towards their family and friends. While they may be warm with familiar company, they are suspicious towards strangers. This suspicion is famous with this breed, and part of what makes them known for being quite vocal.
These dogs are ideal for owners with children. Their gentle and relaxed temperament pairs well with their size, creating playful and harmless pets. These dogs are more reluctant when meeting strangers, although, a socialized Sussex will be open to making new friends.
Swedish Lapphund
Also Called Swedish Spitz
Origins: Finland
Size: Medium
Grooming: Time Consuming
Training: Time Consuming
Recognition: FCI: Group 5
Swedish Vallhund
Origins: Sweden
Size: Small to Medium
Grooming: Average
Training: Average
Recognition: FCI: Group 5, AKC: Herding, KC: Pastoral, NZKC: Working, UKC: Herding
Did I Miss a Breed?
With so many dog breeds in this world, there is a good chance I may have missed one from our dog breeds list S. First of all, I will apologize for that omission, especially if your dog was the one I forgot! Secondly, will not you take the time to send me a quick note, letting me know what dog breed should be on this page?
Remember you can look at our Dog Breeds List Q-R by clicking here.
