Dog breeds A–Z 🐶

Honest, plain-English guides to 435 popular UK dog breeds — what they’re really like to live with, how much exercise and grooming they need, how they fit with families, and the kit that suits them. Use them as a starting point, not the last word: every dog is an individual.

toy breeds (35)

AffenpinscherA tiny, monkey-faced terrier-type toy dog with a big personality. Lively and amusing, but bold and stubborn, so needs patient, consistent training.View breed guide →

Australian Silky TerrierA small, glossy-coated toy terrier with a bold spirit. Friendly and companionable, but keen, alert and prone to barking, with a silky coat that needs regular care.View breed guide →

BologneseA small, fluffy white Italian companion breed of the Bichon family. Gentle, affectionate and devoted, thriving on close company; the single coat sheds little but needs regular grooming, and it dislikes being left alone.View breed guide →

ChihuahuaThe world’s smallest breed — devoted, sassy and perfect for flats, but not the easiest with young children.View breed guide →

Chinese Crested DogA distinctive toy companion that comes in a near-hairless variety and a fully coated 'Powderpuff'. Affectionate, playful and people-oriented, but the bare skin needs sun and cold protection.View breed guide →

ChiweenieA tiny, bold Chihuahua–Dachshund cross that is devoted to its owner and makes a lively companion. Can be vocal and stubborn, and may inherit the Dachshund's long-backed build. Coat and shape vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

ChorkieA tiny, bold Chihuahua–Yorkshire Terrier cross with a big personality. Devoted to its owner but can be feisty, vocal and wary of strangers. Coat and temperament vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

Coton de TulearA cheerful little companion from Madagascar with a soft, cotton-textured coat. Affectionate, sociable and eager to please, making one of the friendliest toy breeds, though the coat needs regular care.View breed guide →

English Toy Terrier (Black & Tan)A sleek miniature of the old Manchester Terrier, once a renowned ratter. Alert, affectionate and devoted to its owner, making a compact, low-grooming companion with a lingering terrier spark.View breed guide →

Griffon BruxelloisA small, expressive Belgian toy dog with a near-human face. Affectionate, confident and devoted to its owner, making a charming companion but rather demanding of attention.View breed guide →

HavaneseCuba's national toy dog, a small, cheerful companion with a long silky coat. Affectionate, sociable and easy to train, making an excellent first dog, though it dislikes being left alone.View breed guide →

HavapooA small, sweet-natured cross of the cheerful Havanese and the clever Poodle. Affectionate, adaptable and usually low-shedding, making a popular apartment companion, though the coat needs regular grooming.View breed guide →

Italian GreyhoundA tiny, elegant sighthound — affectionate, clean and quiet, but delicate and sensitive.View breed guide →

Japanese ChinAn elegant, cat-like toy companion long favoured by Japanese nobility. Charming, affectionate and quiet, well suited to apartment life, though sensitive and a little aloof with strangers.View breed guide →

King Charles SpanielA small, sweet-natured toy spaniel (the English Toy Spaniel), more reserved and placid than its Cavalier cousin. A gentle, low-energy lap companion well suited to quiet homes.View breed guide →

MalteseA tiny white lapdog with a long silky coat — affectionate, gentle and very low-shedding.View breed guide →

MaltipooA Maltese × Poodle cross — affectionate, playful and usually low-shedding, a popular lap-sized companion.View breed guide →

Mini CavapooA small Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Toy Poodle cross that is one of the gentlest, most novice-friendly doodles. Affectionate and adaptable to flats, though it can be prone to separation anxiety and may inherit Cavalier heart issues.View breed guide →

Miniature PinscherA tiny, high-stepping German toy breed known as the 'King of Toys'. Spirited, fearless and alert, a lively companion and watchdog with a big personality and a tendency to bark.View breed guide →

MorkieA tiny, affectionate Maltese–Yorkshire Terrier cross with a long, low-shedding coat. Playful and devoted, but can be vocal and bold for its size. Coat and temperament vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

PapillonThe butterfly-eared toy — one of the smartest small breeds, surprisingly active and very trainable.View breed guide →

PekingeseA flat-faced imperial lapdog — dignified and affectionate, content in flats, but with brachycephalic health needs.View breed guide →

PomapooA tiny, lively cross of the spirited Pomeranian and the clever Toy Poodle. Affectionate and bright, but alert and prone to barking, and very small, so care is needed around young children.View breed guide →

PomchiA tiny, bold cross of two spirited toy breeds. Devoted to its owner and full of character, but alert, vocal and delicate, so best suited to calm homes without very young children.View breed guide →

PomeranianA lively, fox-faced toy dog with a luxurious coat — bold and fun, but tiny and quite vocal.View breed guide →

Pražský KrysaříkA tiny, elegant Czech ratting companion (Prague Ratter), one of the smallest breeds in the world. Lively, affectionate and devoted, it makes a charming companion but is fragile and can be wary of strangers.View breed guide →

PugshireA tiny, affectionate cross of the charming Pug and the spirited Yorkie. Playful and companionable, but small and variable in coat and face shape; some may inherit the Pug's breathing sensitivity.View breed guide →

Russian ToyA tiny, elegant Russian companion in smooth and long-coated varieties. Lively, affectionate and devoted to its owner, an ideal lap dog, but delicate and prone to barking and wariness of strangers.View breed guide →

Shih-PooA Shih Tzu × Poodle cross — gentle, affectionate and usually low-shedding, a relaxed companion for flat life.View breed guide →

ShorkieA tiny, devoted cross of the affectionate Shih Tzu and the spirited Yorkie. Loving and full of character, but alert and prone to barking, with a silky coat that needs regular grooming.View breed guide →

WeeranianA tiny, spirited West Highland White Terrier and Pomeranian cross that is bold, alert and affectionate. Both parents are vocal watchdogs, so barking is common and it suits homes without very young children.View breed guide →

YorkillonA tiny, lively Yorkshire Terrier and Papillon cross that is alert, affectionate and surprisingly bold. Like both parents it can be vocal and is fragile around very young children.View breed guide →

YorkipooA Yorkie × Poodle cross — tiny, lively and usually low-shedding, well suited to flats and smaller homes.View breed guide →

Yorkshire TerrierA tiny, feisty toy terrier with a big personality — ideal for flats but delicate around small children.View breed guide →

YorkteseA tiny Yorkshire Terrier and Maltese cross (also called Morkie) with a silky, low-shedding coat. Affectionate and people-oriented, but prone to barking and best in homes without very young children.View breed guide →

small breeds (95)

Alpine DachsbrackeA short-legged Austrian scenthound bred to track wounded game in the Alps. Sturdy, even-tempered and sociable, with a strong nose and a tendency to vocalise.View breed guide →

American Cocker SpanielA gentle, affectionate gundog with a glamorous flowing coat. Sweet-natured and eager to please, but the heavy coat demands serious, regular grooming.View breed guide →

Andalusian TerrierA small Spanish ratting terrier (Ratonero Bodeguero Andaluz). Lively, brave and quick, with strong working instincts and the typical terrier alertness and tenacity.View breed guide →

Australian TerrierA small, sturdy working terrier with a harsh weatherproof coat. Spirited, affectionate and adaptable, making a good companion, though it loves to bark and dig.View breed guide →

BasenjiThe "barkless dog" of Africa — clean, quiet and cat-like, but fiercely independent.View breed guide →

Basset Artésien NormandA short-legged French scenthound bred to hunt small game at a walking pace. Gentle, affectionate and sociable, but stubborn and easily led by its nose, with a typical hound bay.View breed guide →

Basset Bleu de GascogneA mottled blue-coated French basset scenthound bred for small game. Sociable, gentle and good in company, but a tenacious tracker with a strong nose and a loud, melodious bay.View breed guide →

Basset Fauve de BretagneA small, wiry-coated French basset scenthound bred for tough Breton terrain. Lively, friendly and courageous, with a keen nose, plenty of stamina and the usual hound tendency to follow scent and bark.View breed guide →

BeaglierA friendly, affectionate Beagle–Cavalier cross that makes a gentle family companion. The Cavalier softens some of the Beagle's drive, but scent instinct and energy vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

Bedlington TerrierThe lamb-like terrier — distinctive, friendly and very low-shedding, though the coat needs regular clipping.View breed guide →

Bichon FriseA cheerful, low-shedding companion that’s a popular choice for allergy-conscious, flat-dwelling owners.View breed guide →

Border TerrierA hardy, good-natured working terrier that’s friendlier with people and dogs than many of its terrier cousins.View breed guide →

BoshihA small Boston Terrier and Shih Tzu cross that is usually affectionate, friendly and well-suited to flats. Coat and muzzle length vary, and some may inherit mild brachycephalic or eye issues.View breed guide →

Boston TerrierA dapper, tuxedo-marked American companion breed known as the American Gentleman. Friendly, lively and adaptable, making an easy first dog, though its flat face can cause breathing and heat sensitivity.View breed guide →

Brazilian TerrierA spry, tricolour Brazilian ratting terrier descended from European terriers. Lively, alert and quick, it makes a keen companion with the typical terrier energy and prey drive.View breed guide →

BulljackA small but sturdy Bulldog and Jack Russell cross, usually bold, energetic and strong-willed. The terrier influence brings high drive and a need for outlets; size and build vary considerably between pups.View breed guide →

Cairn TerrierThe hardy little Scottish terrier made famous as Toto — busy, cheerful and adaptable.View breed guide →

CairnoodleA small, bright cross of Cairn Terrier and Poodle, typically lively and affectionate with a terrier's curiosity. Traits genuinely vary between individuals, and many keep a strong prey drive and a tendency to bark.View breed guide →

CavachonA gentle, sociable Cavalier–Bichon cross that makes an excellent family and apartment companion. Soft, low-shedding coat needs regular grooming. Coat and size can vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

CavajackA lively Cavalier–Jack Russell cross combining the Cavalier's affection with terrier spirit. Playful and devoted, but can be feisty and vocal. Temperament varies a lot depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

Cavalier King Charles SpanielA gentle, affectionate lap dog that’s wonderful with children and adapts happily to flat or house living.View breed guide →

CavapooOne of the UK’s most popular crossbreeds (Cavalier × Poodle) — affectionate, adaptable and usually low-shedding.View breed guide →

CavapoochonA small triple-cross (Cavalier × Bichon × Poodle) — friendly, low-shedding and well suited to family and flat life.View breed guide →

Cesky TerrierA short-legged Czech terrier bred to be calmer and more biddable than other terriers. Friendly and adaptable, it makes a sociable companion with a coat that needs clipping.View breed guide →

Cirneco dell'EtnaAn ancient, elegant Sicilian sighthound-type bred to hunt rabbit on the slopes of Mount Etna. Athletic, affectionate and clean, but driven by a strong chase instinct.View breed guide →

CockapooA hugely popular Cocker × Poodle crossbreed — friendly, lower-shedding and great with families.View breed guide →

CorgipooA small, bright and playful cross of the herding Corgi and the Poodle. Often lower-shedding and quick to learn, though coat type and the Corgi's alert, vocal streak vary between individuals.View breed guide →

DachshundA bold, characterful "sausage dog" that suits smaller homes but needs careful handling of its long back.View breed guide →

Dandie Dinmont TerrierA distinctive long-bodied Scottish-Borders terrier with a silky topknot. Affectionate and dignified at home but bold and tenacious when working, with a surprisingly deep bark for its size.View breed guide →

Danish–Swedish FarmdogA small, versatile Scandinavian farm dog once used for ratting, herding and companionship. Lively, friendly and adaptable, doing well in active homes and dog sports despite a pinscher-like look.View breed guide →

DorgiA short-legged, affectionate Dachshund–Corgi cross (famously kept by the late Queen). Loyal and lively, but the long-backed build means care over weight and jumping. Coat and temperament vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

DreverA short-legged Swedish scenthound bred to drive deer and other game. Friendly, even-tempered and sociable, with a strong nose and the characteristic hound voice.View breed guide →

Fox TerrierA lively, classic British terrier (smooth or wire) — bold and full of character, with strong terrier instincts.View breed guide →

French BulldogA compact, easy-going companion that suits flats and modest exercise — but with serious health considerations.View breed guide →

Frenchie PugA small, sociable French Bulldog and Pug cross (also called Frug). Affectionate and apartment-friendly, but combining two flat-faced breeds means a high risk of inherited breathing, eye and heat-tolerance problems.View breed guide →

FrenchtonAn affectionate, easygoing French Bulldog–Boston Terrier cross popular as a companion. Often a little longer-nosed than a Frenchie, but both parents are flat-faced, so breathing risk varies depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

German HoundThe Deutsche Bracke, a German scenthound bred to track game over varied terrain. Friendly and even-tempered, but a single-minded worker with a strong nose and voice.View breed guide →

German SpitzA bright, foxy-faced companion spitz with a profuse stand-off coat. Lively, devoted and alert, making a good watchful housedog, though it tends to bark readily.View breed guide →

Glen of Imaal TerrierA short-legged, sturdy Irish working terrier from County Wicklow. Brave and game at work yet notably calm and gentle at home, and quieter than most terriers.View breed guide →

Jack Russell TerrierA small dog with a huge personality — bold, clever and bursting with energy and prey drive.View breed guide →

JackapooA lively, clever Jack Russell–Poodle cross with plenty of energy and personality. Often low-shedding but needs regular grooming, and can inherit terrier feistiness. Coat and temperament vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

JagdterrierA compact, intensely driven German hunting terrier bred to work fox and badger underground. Fearless and tireless, with an extreme prey drive that makes it a working dog first, not a casual pet.View breed guide →

Japanese SpitzA small, fluffy white companion spitz resembling a miniature Samoyed. Loyal, affectionate and cheerful, suiting families and apartments, though alert and prone to barking.View breed guide →

Japanese TerrierA rare, fine-boned Japanese companion terrier with a smooth tricolour coat. Lively, affectionate and alert, suited to indoor life, but sensitive and prone to barking.View breed guide →

JugA sturdy, playful Jack Russell–Pug cross that blends terrier energy with Pug affection. The terrier parent often improves on the Pug's breathing, but face shape and drive vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

KooikerhondjeA spaniel-type Dutch duck-decoy dog with striking red-and-white markings. Cheerful, lively and affectionate, but sensitive and reserved with strangers; thrives on gentle handling.View breed guide →

KromfohrländerA German companion breed developed after WWII, occurring in wire- and smooth-haired varieties. Friendly, devoted and biddable, making an affectionate family dog, though reserved with strangers.View breed guide →

Lakeland TerrierA smart, bold working terrier with a low-shedding wiry coat — hardy and adaptable, but every inch a terrier.View breed guide →

Lancashire HeelerA small British cattle-droving and ratting dog, low-set and sturdy. Alert, affectionate and intelligent, making a lively companion, though prone to barking and a touch of terrier feistiness.View breed guide →

Lhasa ApsoA long-coated Tibetan watchdog — confident and suited to flats, but independent, alert and high-maintenance to groom.View breed guide →

LhasapooA small, characterful cross of the watchful Lhasa Apso and the clever Poodle. Affectionate and bright, but can inherit the Lhasa's independent, alert streak; coat type varies between pups.View breed guide →

LöwchenThe 'little lion dog', a small bichon-type companion traditionally clipped in a lion trim. Affectionate, lively and friendly, making a happy, adaptable, low-shedding family pet.View breed guide →

Manchester TerrierA sleek black-and-tan British ratting terrier, fast and keen. Alert, loyal and clean-coated, a spirited companion with a strong prey drive and typical terrier independence.View breed guide →

Mini CockapooA small Cocker Spaniel and Miniature or Toy Poodle cross that is one of the best-known doodles. Typically friendly, affectionate and biddable, with a low-shedding coat that needs regular grooming; coat type still varies between pups.View breed guide →

Mini GoldendoodleA smaller Golden Retriever and Miniature Poodle cross prized as a gentle, sociable family companion. Affectionate and trainable, though coat type, shedding and adult size vary between individuals.View breed guide →

Mini LabradoodleA smaller Labrador and Miniature Poodle cross that is typically friendly, smart and family-friendly. Coat and shedding vary between individuals, so the low-allergen reputation is not guaranteed in every pup.View breed guide →

Miniature American ShepherdA compact herding breed scaled down from the Australian Shepherd. Intelligent, energetic and eager to please, a versatile family and sport dog that needs mental and physical work.View breed guide →

Miniature Bull TerrierA compact version of the Bull Terrier with the same egg-shaped head and big personality. Playful, bold and affectionate, but strong-willed, mischievous and often combative with other dogs.View breed guide →

Miniature SchnauzerA smart, spirited and low-shedding companion that adapts well to flats but likes to have its say.View breed guide →

Norfolk TerrierOne of the smallest working terriers — friendly, sociable and good with families and other dogs.View breed guide →

NorrbottenspetsA small Nordic spitz-type hunting dog bred to tree game and bark to mark it. Alert, friendly and hardy, an active companion with a strong prey drive and a notably vocal nature.View breed guide →

Norwegian LundehundA unique Norwegian spitz bred to scale cliffs for puffins, with extra toes and remarkable flexibility. Agile and alert, but independent and prone to a digestive disorder.View breed guide →

Norwich TerrierOne of the smallest working terriers, with prick ears and a hardy wiry coat. Bold, affectionate and sociable, making a sturdy companion, but with terrier drive and a love of barking.View breed guide →

Parson Russell TerrierA bold, leggy working terrier bred to bolt fox. Energetic, confident and tireless, with high prey drive and strong terrier independence; thrives with active owners.View breed guide →

Patterdale TerrierA tough, tenacious working terrier from the Lake District — hardy and fearless, with energy and drive to match.View breed guide →

Pembroke Welsh CorgiA short-legged Welsh cattle-herding breed, bold and intelligent in a compact frame. Affectionate and very trainable, but vocal, prone to herding-nipping and weight gain.View breed guide →

Petit Basset Griffon VendéenA small, scruffy French scenthound bred to hunt rabbit in the Vendée. Happy, outgoing and sociable, but a determined worker with a strong nose and a loud bark.View breed guide →

PomskyA small, striking Pomeranian–Husky cross with a thick double coat and big personality. Smart but can be vocal and headstrong. Size and temperament vary depending on which parent they take after, as Husky genes can mean more energy and prey drive.View breed guide →

PoochonA cheerful, affectionate Bichon–Poodle cross (also called Bichpoo) that suits families and flats. Soft curly coat is low-shedding but needs regular grooming. Coat and size vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

PugA charming, comical lap dog that’s content in a flat — but a flat face brings real health considerations.View breed guide →

PugapooA friendly, playful cross of the charming Pug and the clever Poodle. Often lower-shedding and with a longer muzzle than the Pug, though some still inherit a flatter face and related breathing or heat sensitivity.View breed guide →

PuggleA friendly, playful Pug–Beagle cross that is sociable and good with families. The Beagle parent can ease some of the Pug's breathing issues, but flat-faced traits and scent-driven stubbornness vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

Pyrenean SheepdogA small, wiry French herding dog from the Pyrenees, full of energy and drive. Intensely devoted and quick to learn, but high-strung, wary of strangers and needing constant activity.View breed guide →

Ratonero ValencianoA small Spanish ratting terrier from the Valencia region. Quick, brave and energetic, with strong working instincts and the alert, vocal nature of a vermin hunter.View breed guide →

SchipperkeA small, fox-faced Belgian 'little captain' once used as a barge watchdog. Curious, alert and bold, full of energy and devotion, but an enthusiastic barker with strong watchdog and chasing instincts.View breed guide →

SchnoodleA clever, affectionate Schnauzer–Poodle cross ranging from toy to standard depending on the parents. Usually low-shedding but needs regular grooming. Size, coat and energy vary depending on which parent the dog takes after.View breed guide →

Schweizerischer NiederlaufhundA short-legged Swiss scenthound (Small Swiss Hound) bred for hunting in smaller enclosed terrain. Friendly and even-tempered, an adaptable companion, but a keen tracker with a strong nose and hound voice.View breed guide →

ScoodleA small Scottish Terrier and Poodle cross blending terrier independence with Poodle smarts. Coat, temperament and trainability vary a lot between individuals, and a stubborn terrier streak can show through.View breed guide →

Scottish TerrierThe dignified, independent Scottie — loyal and low-shedding, with a classic terrier mind of its own.View breed guide →

Sealyham TerrierA short-legged, sturdy Welsh working terrier with a harsh white coat. Confident, affectionate and calmer than many terriers, but it keeps a stubborn streak and its coat needs regular hand-stripping or trimming.View breed guide →

SheltidoodleA small, clever Shetland Sheepdog and Poodle cross that is highly trainable and eager to please. The herding influence brings sensitivity and a strong tendency to bark and watch the household.View breed guide →

Shetland SheepdogA small, brainy herding dog — the "Sheltie" is devoted, highly trainable and excels at agility and obedience.View breed guide →

Shiba InuA fox-like, dignified Japanese breed — clean, compact and cat-like, but independent with a strong will of its own.View breed guide →

Shih TzuA friendly, low-energy companion bred purely for company — perfect for flats if you keep up the grooming.View breed guide →

Skye TerrierA long-bodied, low-slung Scottish terrier with a dramatic flowing coat. Fiercely loyal to its own people but wary of strangers and other dogs, with a stubborn, one-person streak.View breed guide →

Smooth Fox TerrierA bold, energetic English terrier bred to bolt foxes. Fearless, fun-loving and full of character, but feisty with other dogs, quick to dig and bark, and needing firm, consistent training.View breed guide →

Sussex SpanielA low, sturdy English spaniel with a rich golden-liver coat and a famously laid-back nature. Calmer and slower-paced than other spaniels, friendly and affectionate, though it can be a vocal worker.View breed guide →

Swedish VallhundA long-bodied, low-set Spitz cattle-herding dog from Sweden, often likened to a corgi. Energetic, friendly and trainable, but alert and prone to barking.View breed guide →

Tibetan SpanielA small, alert companion dog once kept in Tibetan monasteries. Affectionate and confident with its family, making a good watchdog, but a little aloof with strangers.View breed guide →

Volpino ItalianoA small, fluffy Italian Spitz once kept as a watchdog and companion. Lively, affectionate and bold, an alert little watchdog but a notably keen barker.View breed guide →

Welsh TerrierA friendly, smart terrier with a low-shedding wiry coat — hardy and good with families, but a born digger.View breed guide →

West Highland White TerrierA confident, friendly little terrier — the "Westie" is hardy, characterful and adaptable to smaller homes.View breed guide →

WestiepooA spirited little cross of the bold Westie and the clever Poodle. Affectionate and bright, but terrier-feisty and alert, with a tendency to bark and a coat that varies from wiry to wavy.View breed guide →

Westphalian DachsbrackeA short-legged German scenthound used to track and drive game. Sturdy, friendly and sociable, with a powerful nose and a tendency to follow scent and bay.View breed guide →

Wire Fox TerrierA classic British fox-bolting terrier, bold, lively and full of energy. Confident and entertaining, but feisty, prey-driven and prone to barking and digging.View breed guide →

medium breeds (145)

AidiA rugged Moroccan flock-guarding and protection dog. Hardy, alert and devoted to its family, but wary of strangers and best suited to active, experienced owners.View breed guide →

American Staffordshire TerrierA powerful, muscular terrier that is devoted and affectionate with its family. Confident and people-loving, but strong and can be dog-reactive without good socialisation.View breed guide →

American Water SpanielA versatile curly-coated American hunting spaniel that retrieves on land and water. Intelligent and eager, but can be sensitive and a little reserved with strangers.View breed guide →

Anglo-Français de Petite VénerieA French pack scenthound bred for hunting small game. Highly sociable with other dogs and people, but needs hard exercise and is driven by scent.View breed guide →

Appenzeller SennenhundA high-energy Swiss farm and herding dog. Lively, confident and devoted, but needs a job and plenty of exercise; can be vocal and protective.View breed guide →

AriégeoisA French pack scenthound bred for hare. Sociable, gentle and good in company, but a tireless worker driven by scent and best suited to active rural homes.View breed guide →

Artois HoundA rare French pack scenthound with great stamina and a keen nose. Sociable and brave, but a dedicated worker that needs serious exercise and rural life.View breed guide →

AussiedoodleA highly intelligent, energetic Australian Shepherd–Poodle cross that thrives on training and activity. Often low-shedding but needs regular grooming. Size, energy and herding drive vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

Australian Cattle DogA tough, highly intelligent herding breed bred to drive cattle. Extremely energetic and loyal, but needs constant work and may nip and herd without training.View breed guide →

Australian KelpieAn exceptional Australian sheep-herding dog with boundless energy and drive. Highly intelligent and trainable, but utterly unsuited to a low-activity home.View breed guide →

Australian LabradoodleA purpose-developed type combining Labrador, Poodle and Cocker Spaniel lines, bred for a consistent low-shedding fleece coat and gentle temperament. More predictable than a first-generation doodle, but coat and size still vary depending on the lines.View breed guide →

Australian ShepherdA brilliant, energetic herding dog that excels at sport and work — but needs a busy, committed owner.View breed guide →

Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle DogA naturally bobtailed Australian cattle-herding breed, hardy and intensely driven. Loyal and alert, but high-energy and reserved with strangers; needs work.View breed guide →

Austrian Black and Tan HoundAn Austrian scenthound bred to track wounded game in mountainous terrain. Friendly and even-tempered, but a focused worker with a strong nose and hound voice.View breed guide →

Barak houndA rugged Balkan scenthound (the Bosnian Coarse-haired Hound) bred to track game over harsh terrain. Hardy, even-tempered and sociable, but a dedicated worker driven by scent with a strong hound voice.View breed guide →

BarbetA cheerful French water-retrieving gundog with a dense, curly low-shedding coat. Friendly, intelligent and eager to please, making a sociable family companion that loves water and needs regular grooming.View breed guide →

Basset HoundA low-slung, soulful scent hound — gentle and easy-going, but stubborn and led by its nose.View breed guide →

Bavarian Mountain HoundA German mountain scenthound bred to track wounded game over difficult ground. Calm and deeply bonded to its handler, but a focused, single-minded tracker that is reserved with strangers and needs an active, experienced owner.View breed guide →

BeagleA merry, pack-loving scent hound — sociable and great with kids, but ruled by its nose.View breed guide →

Beagle-HarrierA French pack scenthound midway between Beagle and Harrier, bred for hunting hare. Highly sociable and gentle with people and dogs, but a tireless worker driven by scent and needing serious exercise.View breed guide →

Bearded CollieA bouncy, shaggy-coated Scottish herding breed full of energy and good humour. Affectionate, lively and friendly, but the long coat is high-maintenance and it needs plenty of exercise and company.View breed guide →

Belgian MalinoisA high-drive working dog used by police and military worldwide — astonishingly athletic and trainable, but far too much dog for most homes.View breed guide →

Berger PicardA rugged, tousle-coated French herding breed with an alert, lively character. Loyal and good-natured but sensitive and strong-willed, needing patient, positive training and plenty of activity.View breed guide →

Black Norwegian ElkhoundA compact black-coated Scandinavian spitz-type hunting hound, smaller than the grey Elkhound. Bold, alert and loyal, with a thick shedding coat, an independent streak and a strong tendency to bark.View breed guide →

Blue Picardy SpanielA gentle French pointing and retrieving spaniel with a distinctive blue-grey speckled coat. Calm, affectionate and biddable, making an easy companion and gundog that needs good exercise and regular coat care.View breed guide →

Bohemian ShepherdA medium Czech herding and guarding breed resembling a smaller, black-and-tan shepherd. Friendly, intelligent and eager to please, making a versatile family and working dog that needs regular exercise and grooming.View breed guide →

Border CollieThe ultimate working brain — astonishingly clever and trainable, but needs hours of exercise and a job to do.View breed guide →

BordoodleAn exceptionally clever Border Collie–Poodle cross that excels at training but needs a great deal of activity. Often low-shedding with a coat that needs regular grooming. Energy and herding instinct vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

Bouvier des ArdennesA rugged, scruffy-coated Belgian cattle-herding breed. Hardy, loyal and lively, with strong working instincts and a weatherproof coat; needs an active home and confident, consistent handling.View breed guide →

Braque du BourbonnaisA versatile French pointing gundog, often born with a naturally short tail and a fawn or liver ticked coat. Affectionate, biddable and eager to please, making a friendly companion and worker that needs ample exercise.View breed guide →

Briquet Griffon VendéenA medium rough-coated French pack scenthound from the Vendée. Sociable and hardy, but a tireless worker with a strong nose, hound voice and high exercise needs.View breed guide →

Brittany SpanielA compact, athletic French pointing gundog (Épagneul Breton). Energetic, eager to please and affectionate, it makes a fun family dog for active homes that can meet its exercise needs.View breed guide →

Bull TerrierThe unmistakable egg-headed clown — playful, affectionate and mischievous, but strong and stubborn.View breed guide →

BulladorA laid-back, affectionate cross of the easygoing Bulldog and the family Labrador. Generally mellow and friendly, though some inherit the Bulldog's shorter muzzle and related breathing or heat sensitivity.View breed guide →

BulldogA placid, affectionate companion that’s happy with gentle walks — but burdened by serious health issues.View breed guide →

BullpeiA medium, stocky Bulldog and Shar Pei cross that is devoted but often reserved and headstrong. Wrinkles and a flat-ish face can bring skin and breathing issues, and it tends to be wary with other dogs.View breed guide →

Campeiro BulldogA robust Brazilian working bulldog historically used to handle cattle in slaughteryards. Brave, loyal and tenacious, with strong guarding instincts and a need for firm handling.View breed guide →

Canaan DogAn ancient pariah-type herding and guarding dog from the Middle East. Alert, intelligent and devoted to its family, but naturally aloof with strangers and prone to barking.View breed guide →

Catalan SheepdogA shaggy Catalan herding dog (Gos d'Atura Català). Intelligent, hardworking and devoted to its family, it makes a trainable companion for active homes that can keep it busy.View breed guide →

CavadorA friendly, family-oriented cross of two of Britain's favourite companions. Most are gentle, biddable and people-loving, but size and coat vary widely depending on which parent each pup favours.View breed guide →

Chow ChowA dignified, aloof and cat-like Chinese breed — clean and loyal to its family but famously independent, with a thick double coat.View breed guide →

CockadorA friendly, eager-to-please Cocker–Labrador cross that makes a sociable family dog. Loves people and activity, with the gundog drive of both parents. Size, coat and energy vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

Cocker SpanielA merry, affectionate gundog that loves people and activity — happiest with a job and regular grooming.View breed guide →

Colombian Fino HoundA Colombian scenthound (Sabueso Fino Colombiano) bred to track and tree game over rough terrain. Energetic, sociable in a pack and keen-nosed, but a dedicated worker that needs space and exercise.View breed guide →

Continental BulldogA Swiss-developed bulldog bred to be healthier and more athletic than the English Bulldog, with a longer muzzle and freer movement. Friendly, calm and affectionate, making an easygoing companion.View breed guide →

CorgidorA sturdy herder-retriever cross that is loyal, clever and keen to work. Build ranges from low-slung Corgi proportions to a more typical Labrador frame, and the dense coat sheds heavily.View breed guide →

Croatian SheepdogAn agile, black-coated Croatian herding breed bred to drive cattle and sheep. Highly intelligent, energetic and devoted, but needs a job and plenty of exercise to stay happy.View breed guide →

Drentse PatrijshondA versatile Dutch pointing and retrieving gundog with a gentle, devoted nature. Affectionate and good with families, more sensitive and home-loving than many continental gundogs, but still an active worker.View breed guide →

DunkerA Norwegian scenthound (Norwegian Hound) bred to track hare by scent in cold terrain. Friendly, calm and even-tempered at home, but a hardy worker with a keen nose and good stamina.View breed guide →

Dutch ShepherdAn athletic, brindle-coated Dutch herding breed now widely used in police and protection work. Highly intelligent, energetic and devoted, but needs serious training, exercise and a confident owner.View breed guide →

English BoodleA medium English Bulldog and Poodle cross aiming to soften the Bulldog's build with Poodle athleticism. An affectionate, fairly laid-back companion, though some may inherit the Bulldog's breathing or joint issues.View breed guide →

English Springer SpanielA tireless, enthusiastic working gundog that needs serious daily exercise and mental stimulation.View breed guide →

Entlebucher Mountain DogThe smallest of the four Swiss mountain dogs, a lively, agile cattle herder. Confident, intelligent and devoted, but high-energy and headstrong, needing an active, experienced home.View breed guide →

Estonian HoundEstonia's national scenthound, developed for hunting hare and fox under restrictions on larger dogs. Friendly, sociable and biddable for a hound, but driven by scent and needing plenty of exercise.View breed guide →

EurasierA calm, balanced German spitz breed created from Chow Chow, Keeshond and Samoyed. Devoted and gentle with its family, quietly reserved with strangers, and notably even-tempered for a companion dog.View breed guide →

Field SpanielA rare, docile British gundog, longer in body than the Cocker. Gentle, affectionate and devoted, more sensitive and reserved than the Springer, making a calm family companion that still loves to work.View breed guide →

Finnish HoundA popular Finnish scenthound bred to track hare and fox over snow and forest. Friendly and calm at home but a determined, energetic worker with a strong nose and a loud, melodious bay.View breed guide →

Finnish LapphundA hardy spitz breed originally used by the Sámi to herd reindeer. Friendly, gentle and eager to please, making an affectionate family dog, though the thick coat sheds heavily and the breed loves to bark.View breed guide →

Finnish SpitzFinland's national dog, a fox-red spitz bred to find game and bark to mark it. Lively, friendly and alert, but a famously enthusiastic barker with an independent streak.View breed guide →

German PinscherAn elegant, athletic medium pinscher and the root of several related breeds. Bold, intelligent and loyal, with a strong character that needs firm, consistent handling.View breed guide →

German SpanielThe Deutscher Wachtelhund, a robust German flushing and tracking gundog. Eager, hardy and affectionate, but bred as a serious worker needing intense exercise and a job.View breed guide →

Golden Cocker RetrieverA sweet-natured cross of two gentle gundogs, sometimes called the Comfort Retriever. Affectionate, biddable and great with families, though the feathered coat needs regular grooming and size varies.View breed guide →

Gończy PolskiA Polish mountain scenthound bred to track and bay game over rough terrain. Friendly and gentle with family, but a tireless worker with a strong nose and ringing voice.View breed guide →

Grand Basset Griffon VendéenA long-bodied, shaggy French scenthound bred to hunt hare. Cheerful, sociable and good with families, but stubborn, vocal and driven by a powerful nose.View breed guide →

Greek HarehoundA rugged Greek scenthound bred to hunt hare in rough mountainous country. Hardy, lively and keen-nosed, but a single-minded worker rarely kept as a pet.View breed guide →

Griffon Bleu de GascogneA rough-coated French scenthound with the blue-mottled Gascony colouring. Sociable and hardy, but a tireless, single-minded worker with a strong nose and voice.View breed guide →

Griffon Fauve de BretagneA rugged fawn-coloured Breton scenthound, one of France's oldest hunting breeds. Brave, sociable and hardy, but headstrong, vocal and driven by a powerful nose.View breed guide →

Griffon NivernaisA rough-coated French scenthound bred to hunt boar and wolf in the Nivernais region. Hardy, courageous and sociable, but a tenacious worker with a strong nose and loud voice.View breed guide →

Halden HoundA rare Norwegian scenthound (Haldenstøver) bred to track hare in deep snow. Friendly and calm at home, but a hardy, scent-driven worker that needs space and exercise.View breed guide →

HarrierA pack scenthound bred to hunt hare, larger than a Beagle and smaller than a Foxhound. Sociable and cheerful with people and dogs, but high-energy, vocal and scent-driven.View breed guide →

Hygen HoundA rare Norwegian scenthound bred for stamina in cold terrain. Friendly and hardy, but a high-energy worker driven by scent, best suited to active rural homes.View breed guide →

Icelandic SheepdogIceland's only native breed, a hardy spitz-type herding dog. Friendly, cheerful and devoted to its family, making a good companion, though it is vocal and sheds heavily.View breed guide →

Irish TerrierA fiery red working terrier, devoted and affectionate with its family but famously combative with other dogs. Bold, spirited and brave, needing firm, consistent handling.View breed guide →

Istrian Coarse-haired HoundA rugged Croatian scenthound from Istria, bred to hunt hare and fox. Hardy and friendly, but a determined, scent-driven worker best suited to active hunting homes.View breed guide →

Istrian Shorthaired HoundA white-and-orange Croatian scenthound, one of the oldest Balkan hound breeds. Gentle and friendly at home, but a focused, scent-driven worker that needs serious exercise.View breed guide →

Kai KenA rare brindle-coated Japanese spitz-type hunting dog, devoted to one person and a natural climber and swimmer. Intelligent and loyal, but reserved with strangers and independent-minded.View breed guide →

Karelian Bear DogA fearless Finnish spitz bred to hunt big game including bear and moose. Brave, loyal and tenacious, but intensely driven, dog-aggressive and independent — a specialist's working dog, not a typical pet.View breed guide →

KeeshondA handsome grey-and-black spitz, the Dutch barge dog, with a plush coat and spectacled face. Friendly, affectionate and a great family companion, though alert and prone to barking, with a coat that sheds heavily.View breed guide →

Kerry Blue TerrierA versatile Irish working terrier with a distinctive soft blue coat. Intelligent, bold and devoted to its family, but strong-willed and often combative with other dogs.View breed guide →

KintamaniA spitz-type mountain dog from the Kintamani region of Bali, the only recognised Indonesian breed. Independent and territorial, alert and devoted to its family but wary of strangers.View breed guide →

KishuA medium Japanese spitz-type hunting dog bred to track boar and deer. Dignified, quiet and intensely loyal, but independent, reserved with strangers and high in prey drive.View breed guide →

Korean JindoA spitz-type Korean hunting dog renowned for fierce loyalty to one owner. Bold, clean and intelligent, but strongly independent, high in prey drive and aloof with strangers.View breed guide →

Lagotto RomagnoloThe Italian truffle dog — intelligent, affectionate and very low-shedding, with a distinctive curly coat.View breed guide →

Lapponian HerderA Finnish reindeer-herding breed bred for the Arctic. Calm and friendly yet energetic and hardy, with a strong herding drive, a working voice and a real need for activity.View breed guide →

Montenegrin Mountain HoundA Balkan scenthound bred to hunt hare and fox over rugged terrain. Hardy, determined and friendly, but a focused worker with a strong nose and a loud, persistent hound voice.View breed guide →

MudiA versatile Hungarian herding breed with a distinctive wavy coat. Highly intelligent, energetic and trainable, an agile sport and working dog that needs plenty to do, and a keen barker.View breed guide →

Norwegian BuhundA lively Norwegian spitz herding and farm dog. Cheerful, intelligent and affectionate with family, but vocal and needing plenty of exercise and mental work.View breed guide →

Norwegian ElkhoundAn ancient Norwegian spitz hunting dog used to track and bay big game such as elk. Bold, loyal and hardy, but independent, vocal and a heavy shedder.View breed guide →

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling RetrieverThe smallest retriever, bred in Nova Scotia to lure and retrieve waterfowl. Intelligent, energetic and affectionate, but needs lots of exercise and can be reserved with strangers.View breed guide →

Old Danish PointerA calm, steady Danish pointing gundog that works close to the gun. Affectionate and biddable at home, but still needs solid daily exercise as a working breed.View breed guide →

Peruvian Hairless DogAn ancient Peruvian sighthound-type dog in three sizes, usually hairless. Lively, affectionate and devoted to its family, but sensitive, needing skin and temperature care.View breed guide →

Petit Bleu de GascogneA French pack scenthound of the Bleu de Gascogne family, bred for hare and small game. Sociable and gentle with dogs, but a tireless, scent-driven worker suited to rural life.View breed guide →

Pharaoh HoundAn elegant Maltese hunting hound that works by sight and scent and is known to blush when excited. Affectionate and playful, but independent with a strong chase instinct.View breed guide →

Picardy SpanielA French pointing spaniel (Épagneul Picard) bred for versatile hunting in wet terrain. Gentle, calm and affectionate at home, but needs plenty of exercise and a job.View breed guide →

Podenco CanarioA primitive Canary Islands hunting hound used to course rabbit by sight, scent and hearing. Energetic and alert, but independent with a very high prey drive.View breed guide →

Polish Lowland SheepdogA shaggy Polish herding breed (Polski Owczarek Nizinny), clever and watchful. Loyal and trainable, but headstrong with a demanding coat and a strong guarding bark.View breed guide →

Pont-Audemer SpanielA rare French water spaniel with a curly, woolly coat and a topknot. Cheerful, affectionate and biddable, but a working gundog needing plenty of exercise and water.View breed guide →

PorcelaineAn elegant French pack scenthound with a fine, almost translucent white coat. Sociable and gentle, but a tireless worker driven by scent and best suited to active rural homes.View breed guide →

Portuguese PodengoA primitive Portuguese hunting hound in three sizes (small, medium, large) and two coats. Lively, alert and playful, but with a strong prey drive and typical hound independence.View breed guide →

Portuguese PointerA Portuguese pointing gundog (Perdigueiro Português) with a distinctive square head. Affectionate and biddable at home, but an energetic worker that needs daily exercise.View breed guide →

Portuguese SheepdogA shaggy, goat-coated Portuguese herding breed (Cão da Serra de Aires), nicknamed the 'monkey dog'. Intelligent, lively and devoted, but headstrong and wary of strangers.View breed guide →

Portuguese Water DogA curly-coated, athletic working dog — highly intelligent, water-loving and very low-shedding.View breed guide →

Posavac HoundA Croatian scenthound from the Sava valley, bred to track hare and other game. Friendly and gentle with family, but a determined worker with a strong nose and hound voice.View breed guide →

PuliA Hungarian herding dog famous for its long, naturally corded coat. Lively, intelligent and devoted, with strong herding instincts; the distinctive cords are low-shedding but very demanding to maintain.View breed guide →

PumiA spirited Hungarian herding terrier-type with curly fur and characteristic ears. Quick, intelligent and tireless, it excels at dog sports but is vocal and needs lots of exercise and mental work.View breed guide →

Russo-European LaikaA spitz-type Russian hunting laika bred to tree and bay big game. Hardy, bold and tireless, with a strong prey drive and loud voice; an independent worker that needs an experienced, active owner.View breed guide →

Sabueso EspañolA Spanish scenthound with an exceptional nose, traditionally worked singly on hare, boar and other game. Gentle and even-tempered at home but a focused, tenacious tracker with a strong voice and real exercise needs.View breed guide →

Sarail HoundA rare and little-documented Balkan/Greek scenthound used for tracking and hunting game. Hardy and tenacious with a strong nose, it is an active working hound best suited to experienced, outdoorsy owners.View breed guide →

SchapendoesA shaggy Dutch herding dog (Dutch Sheepdog), agile and good-natured. Lively, intelligent and affectionate, it makes a friendly family companion but needs exercise and regular grooming of its thick coat.View breed guide →

SchillerstövareA fast, fawn-and-black Swedish scenthound bred to hunt hare and fox in cold terrain. Friendly and even-tempered with its family but a tireless, scent-driven worker that needs serious exercise.View breed guide →

Schweizer LaufhundA Swiss scenthound (Swiss Hound) prized for its keen nose and stamina hunting hare in mountainous terrain. Friendly and even-tempered at home but a passionate, scent-driven worker needing plenty of exercise.View breed guide →

Segugio dell'AppenninoAn Italian Apennine scenthound bred to hunt hare and wild boar over rough terrain. Hardy, pack-friendly and tireless, with a strong nose and an instinct to follow scent over recall.View breed guide →

Segugio Italiano a Pelo ForteThe wire-haired variety of the classic Italian hare hound. An elegant, square-built scenthound that is gentle and affectionate at home but tireless and single-minded once on a trail.View breed guide →

Segugio Italiano a Pelo RasoThe smooth-coated Italian hare hound, an ancient and athletic scenthound. Sweet-natured and devoted with its family, but built to follow a scent for hours and easily distracted by game.View breed guide →

Segugio MaremmanoA rustic Tuscan boar hound from the Maremma region, prized for stamina and a bold nose. Hardy and devoted, but bred for the hunt and demanding of physical and mental work.View breed guide →

Serbian HoundA Balkan scenthound bred to track hare, fox and boar across the hills. Robust, energetic and even-tempered, but driven by its nose and happiest with an active working home.View breed guide →

Serbian Tricolour HoundThe tricolour Balkan scenthound, closely related to the Serbian Hound and bred for hunting boar and hare. Tough, tireless and devoted, but very much a working hound at heart.View breed guide →

Shar PeiThe famously wrinkled Chinese breed — calm, clean and devoted, but aloof and needing careful health and skin management.View breed guide →

Shikoku dogA spirited Japanese spitz-type boar hunter from Shikoku island, sometimes called the Kochi-ken. Devoted and clever with its family, but primitive, strong-willed and reserved with strangers and other dogs.View breed guide →

Siberian HuskyA stunning, independent sled dog built for endurance — beautiful, but a real handful for the unprepared.View breed guide →

SiberpooA medium Siberian Husky and Poodle cross (also called Huskydoodle) that is energetic, smart and often independent. Exercise needs are high and the husky influence can bring a strong prey drive and escape instinct.View breed guide →

Slovenský kopovA black-and-tan Slovakian scenthound bred to track wild boar in mountain forests. Tough, courageous and tireless, with a fine nose, strong drive and a loud hunting voice.View breed guide →

Smaland HoundSweden's oldest native scenthound, a compact black-and-tan dog bred to hunt hare and fox. Calm and friendly at home but a keen, persistent tracker with a strong baying voice.View breed guide →

Small MünsterländerA versatile German pointing and retrieving gundog, the smallest of the German setters. Affectionate, biddable and people-focused, but bursting with energy and needing a job to do.View breed guide →

Soft-coated Wheaten TerrierA happy, exuberant Irish farm terrier with a soft, low-shedding silky coat. Friendly and people-loving with a gentler terrier temperament, but bouncy, enthusiastic and demanding of coat care.View breed guide →

SpanadorA medium Cocker Spaniel and Labrador cross (also called Cockador) that is typically friendly, gentle and family-oriented. Generally easy to train and sociable, with size and coat varying between the two parent breeds.View breed guide →

Spanish Water DogA rustic Spanish herding and water-retrieving dog with a distinctive woolly, corded coat. Clever, loyal and athletic, low-shedding but highly active and in need of plenty of mental and physical work.View breed guide →

Sprocker SpanielA Cocker × Springer spaniel cross — friendly, biddable and brilliant for active families, with serious working energy.View breed guide →

StabyhounA rare Dutch all-round farm and gundog from Friesland. Gentle, patient and devoted, an even-tempered family dog that is calmer than many sporting breeds yet still enjoys activity and tracking.View breed guide →

Staffordshire Bull TerrierAffectionately known as the "nanny dog" — devoted, people-loving and famously gentle with children.View breed guide →

Standard SchnauzerThe original medium-sized Schnauzer, a versatile German working dog. Intelligent, spirited and devoted, a low-shedding family guardian that is alert, trainable and bursting with energy.View breed guide →

Styrian Coarse-haired HoundA rugged Austrian mountain scenthound bred to track wounded game in high terrain. Tough, sure-nosed and weatherproof, but a single-minded worker with a loud voice and strong hunting drive.View breed guide →

Swedish LapphundAn ancient Spitz-type reindeer-herding dog of the Sami people. Lively, affectionate and quick to learn, but vocal and bred to work in cold climates.View breed guide →

Tatranský duričA rare Slovakian mountain scenthound (Tatra Hound) bred to track game in rugged terrain. Hardy, brave and driven, with a keen nose and strong working instincts.View breed guide →

Thai Bangkaew DogA Spitz-type Thai companion and watchdog with a profuse coat. Loyal and devoted to its owner, but alert, territorial and reserved with strangers.View breed guide →

Thai RidgebackAn athletic Thai breed with a distinctive ridge of back-growing hair. Independent, loyal and a capable guardian, but strong-willed and needs experienced handling.View breed guide →

Tibetan TerrierA medium-sized companion dog from Tibet with a long, profuse coat (not a true terrier). Affectionate, lively and loyal, but the coat needs committed grooming.View breed guide →

Tyrolean HoundAn Austrian mountain scenthound bred to trail game and track wounded animals. Friendly and even-tempered, but a focused worker with a keen nose and strong voice.View breed guide →

Welsh Springer SpanielA hardworking, friendly Welsh gundog and devoted family companion. Affectionate, loyal and good with children, but needs plenty of exercise and can be a velcro dog.View breed guide →

West Siberian LaikaA Russian Spitz-type hunting dog used on game from squirrel to elk. Energetic, hardy and devoted, but highly independent, prey-driven and not a beginner's dog.View breed guide →

WetterhounA Dutch curly-coated water dog bred to hunt otters and vermin. Loyal and brave, an able guard, but strong-willed and reserved with strangers; not for novices.View breed guide →

WhippetA gentle, quiet "sofa sprinter" — happy to lounge at home between short bursts of explosive running.View breed guide →

WhoodleA soft-coated, friendly cross of the Wheaten Terrier and the Poodle. Bright, affectionate and usually low-shedding, but energetic with a coat that needs regular grooming to stay mat-free.View breed guide →

XoloitzcuintleAn ancient Mexican hairless breed (the Xolo) found in toy, miniature and standard sizes. Calm, loyal and alert, but reserved with strangers and needs skin care.View breed guide →

Yakutian LaikaAn ancient Siberian sled, hunting and herding Spitz from Yakutia. Energetic, friendly and affectionate, but built for cold and needs a great deal of exercise.View breed guide →

large breeds (117)

Afghan HoundAn elegant, aloof sighthound with a glamorous flowing coat. Independent and reserved, with a strong chase instinct and demanding grooming needs.View breed guide →

Airedale TerrierThe "king of terriers" — large, versatile and intelligent, a loyal family dog with a classic terrier streak.View breed guide →

AkitaA dignified, powerful Japanese guardian — intensely loyal and clean, but strong-willed and often intolerant of other dogs.View breed guide →

Alaskan MalamuteA powerful Arctic sled dog — friendly and handsome, but strong, independent and built for cold, not couches.View breed guide →

American FoxhoundA tireless pack scenthound bred for hunting fox. Sociable and gentle with people and dogs, but high-energy, vocal and easily distracted by scent.View breed guide →

Ariège PointerA French pointing gundog (Braque de l'Ariège) bred to work in hot southern terrain. Gentle and affectionate at home, but needs space and plenty of exercise.View breed guide →

AzawakhA lean, elegant West African sighthound bred to guard and hunt across the Sahel. Deeply loyal to its own people but aloof and reserved with strangers, with a strong chase instinct and a sensitive nature.View breed guide →

BeauceronA large, powerful French herding and guarding breed. Highly intelligent, confident and loyal, but strong-willed and protective, requiring firm, experienced handling and thorough socialisation.View breed guide →

Bergamasco ShepherdAn ancient Italian flock-herding breed with a distinctive coat of felted flocks. Intelligent, patient and devoted, but independent-minded and protective, with an unusual coat that needs specialist (rather than frequent) care.View breed guide →

BernedoodleA gentle, affectionate Bernese Mountain Dog–Poodle cross that makes a calm, loyal family dog. Often low-shedding with a coat that needs regular grooming. Size ranges from mini to standard and temperament varies depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

BillyA large French pack scenthound bred for hunting large game such as deer and boar. Energetic, hardy and driven, with great stamina and a strong nose; can be assertive with other dogs and needs serious work.View breed guide →

Black and Tan CoonhoundAn American scenthound bred to trail raccoon by night. Easygoing, gentle and sociable at home, but a powerful tracker with a deep, carrying bay and a strong nose that demands secure exercise.View breed guide →

BloodhoundThe ultimate scent hound — gentle, affectionate and tolerant, but ruled entirely by its remarkable nose.View breed guide →

Bouvier des FlandresA large, powerful Belgian cattle dog with a shaggy, tousled coat. Steady, loyal and protective, making a capable family guardian and worker, but it is strong, needs firm training and demanding grooming.View breed guide →

BoxadorA big, boisterous and affectionate cross of two high-energy family dogs. Devoted and playful, but powerful and exuberant, needing plenty of exercise and early training.View breed guide →

BoxerA bouncy, playful and devoted family dog that stays puppy-like for years — and needs the exercise to match.View breed guide →

Bracco ItalianoAn ancient Italian pointing gundog with a noble, houndy look. Gentle, affectionate and sociable, making a good family gundog, but it needs plenty of exercise and can be sensitive and a little stubborn in training.View breed guide →

Braque d'AuvergneA French pointing gundog with a striking black-and-white ticked coat. Gentle, affectionate and biddable, making a friendly family companion and worker that needs plenty of exercise and a job to do.View breed guide →

Braque FrançaisAn old French pointing breed found in Gascogne and Pyrenean sizes. Gentle, calm and eager to please, making a sociable family gundog that still needs plenty of work.View breed guide →

Braque Saint-GermainA French pointing gundog descended from crosses of French and English pointers. Gentle, sociable and friendly, it works well in the field and settles calmly at home.View breed guide →

BriardA large French herding dog with a long, shaggy coat and a heart-of-gold reputation. Loyal, intelligent and protective, it needs early socialisation and serious coat care.View breed guide →

BullboxerA large, muscular Boxer and Bulldog cross that is typically playful, loyal and good with family. Energy and exercise needs vary with which parent dominates, and a shorter muzzle can bring some breathing risk.View breed guide →

BullmastiffA powerful but surprisingly calm guardian — gentle and devoted with its family, naturally protective without being aggressive.View breed guide →

Burgos PointerA Spanish pointing gundog (Perdiguero de Burgos) bred to work varied terrain. Calm and biddable for a pointer, affectionate at home, but needs real space and exercise.View breed guide →

Ca de BestiarA black Majorcan herding and guarding dog (Perro de Pastor Mallorquín). Loyal and protective of its family and stock, but independent and reserved with strangers.View breed guide →

Ca de BouA powerful Majorcan molosser (Perro Dogo Mallorquín) once used for bull-baiting and guarding. Confident, loyal and calm with family, but strong and dog-reactive without good handling.View breed guide →

Canadian Eskimo DogA powerful Arctic sled and hunting dog (Qimmiq) bred for hauling and stamina. Hardy and loyal, but intensely energetic, pack-driven and unsuited to inexperienced or sedentary owners.View breed guide →

Cane CorsoA powerful Italian mastiff-type guardian — intelligent, deeply loyal and protective, but a serious commitment that needs an experienced owner.View breed guide →

Castro Laboreiro DogA Portuguese mountain guarding dog from the Minho region, known for its distinctive barking 'song'. Loyal and protective of family and stock, but reserved with strangers and independent.View breed guide →

Český fousekA versatile Czech wirehaired pointing gundog that points, retrieves and tracks. Biddable and affectionate, it makes a loyal family worker for active homes that can meet its needs.View breed guide →

Chesapeake Bay RetrieverA powerful American water retriever bred to work icy bays all day. Loyal and devoted, more protective and independent than other retrievers, with a waterproof, oily coat.View breed guide →

Chien Français Blanc et NoirA large French pack scenthound (black-and-white) bred to hunt deer and hare in packs. Highly sociable with dogs and people, but a tireless worker driven by scent.View breed guide →

Chien Français Blanc et OrangeA rare large French pack scenthound (white-and-orange) bred for hunting in packs. Sociable and hardy, but a high-energy worker driven by scent and needing rural life.View breed guide →

Chien Français TricoloreA large tricolour French pack scenthound bred to hunt deer in packs. Sociable and good-natured, but a tireless worker with a strong nose, hound voice and high exercise needs.View breed guide →

Cimarrón UruguayoA powerful Uruguayan molosser descended from feral dogs, used for guarding and hunting. Brave, territorial and devoted to its family, but strong-willed and best suited to very experienced owners.View breed guide →

Clumber SpanielA heavy, mellow gundog — gentler and calmer than most spaniels, but it sheds, drools and gains weight easily.View breed guide →

Curly-coated RetrieverThe tallest of the retrievers, with a distinctive coat of tight curls. Confident, intelligent and affectionate, a capable water and upland gundog that is more independent and reserved than other retrievers.View breed guide →

Czechoslovakian WolfdogA wolf-like breed created by crossing German Shepherds with Carpathian wolves for border patrol work. Extremely active, intelligent and devoted to its pack, but independent, reserved and unsuited to inexperienced owners.View breed guide →

DalmadoodleA large, high-energy Dalmatian and Poodle cross needing plenty of exercise and stimulation. Coat type and shedding are very unpredictable, so the low-shed reputation is far from guaranteed.View breed guide →

DalmatianThe unmistakable spotted breed — striking, athletic and devoted, but high-energy and a notably heavy shedder.View breed guide →

DobermannA sleek, athletic and intensely loyal guardian — highly trainable, but a serious commitment for active owners.View breed guide →

Dogo ArgentinoA large, muscular white Argentine molosser bred for big-game hunting and guarding. Brave, loyal and affectionate with its family, but extremely powerful with a strong protective drive.View breed guide →

Double DoodleA multi-generation doodle blending Golden Retriever, Labrador and Poodle lines. Friendly, sociable and family-oriented, usually low-shedding with a coat that needs regular grooming. Coat type and size vary considerably depending on which lines they take after.View breed guide →

East Siberian LaikaA robust Russian spitz-type hunting dog from Siberia, used on game from squirrels to bear. Independent, hardy and tireless, with a strong prey drive and a need for cold-weather work; not a typical pet.View breed guide →

English FoxhoundA traditional British pack scenthound bred for hunting fox on horseback. Sociable, gentle and tolerant, but built for stamina and rarely kept as a house pet, needing huge amounts of exercise.View breed guide →

English PointerThe classic elegant bird dog — athletic and even-tempered, but with serious exercise and hunting drives.View breed guide →

English SetterA gentle, feathered gundog — friendly and great with children, sociable and even-tempered.View breed guide →

Flat-Coated RetrieverThe "Peter Pan" of retrievers — joyful, friendly and superb with children, staying puppyish for years.View breed guide →

French SpanielA tall, elegant French pointing and retrieving spaniel. Gentle, sociable and eager to please, making a calm family gundog that still needs plenty of exercise.View breed guide →

Galgo EspañolThe Spanish greyhound, an ancient sighthound built for the open plains. Calm, gentle and quiet indoors, but with a strong chase instinct and a sensitive nature.View breed guide →

Gascon SaintongeoisA large French pack scenthound with great stamina and a fine nose. Sociable and gentle with people and dogs, but a tireless worker built for the hunting field.View breed guide →

German Longhaired PointerA versatile German hunting, pointing and retrieving gundog with a feathered coat. Gentle, affectionate and trainable, but needs serious daily exercise and a job.View breed guide →

German Roughhaired PointerA versatile wire-haired German pointing gundog, the Deutsch Stichelhaar. Hardy, trainable and devoted, an all-round hunting dog that needs an active home and plenty of work to stay content.View breed guide →

German ShepherdA loyal, courageous and highly trainable working dog that needs experienced handling and plenty to do.View breed guide →

German Shorthaired PointerA versatile, high-energy gundog — intelligent and eager to please, ideal for active, outdoorsy owners.View breed guide →

German Wirehaired PointerA versatile wire-coated German hunt-point-retrieve gundog. Intelligent, loyal and tireless in the field, but needs an active, experienced owner and plenty to do.View breed guide →

Giant SchnauzerA powerful working schnauzer — intelligent, loyal and protective, needing a job and an experienced hand.View breed guide →

GoberianA handsome, friendly cross of the gentle Golden and the athletic Husky. Sociable and affectionate, but energetic and heavy-shedding, with a streak of Husky independence in some individuals.View breed guide →

Golden RetrieverGentle, eager-to-please and devoted — a classic family companion that thrives on company and exercise.View breed guide →

Golden ShepherdAn intelligent, loyal cross of two classic working breeds. Devoted, trainable and often protective, this large dog needs a job, plenty of exercise and consistent leadership.View breed guide →

GoldendoodleA Golden Retriever × Poodle cross — friendly, trainable and a hugely popular family dog, usually low-shedding.View breed guide →

Gordon SetterThe heaviest of the setters, a black-and-tan Scottish gundog. Loyal, affectionate and dignified, deeply bonded to family but needing lots of exercise and grooming.View breed guide →

Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et NoirA large French-English pack scenthound bred to hunt big game. Highly sociable in a pack and gentle with people, but a tireless worker needing serious space and exercise.View breed guide →

Grand Anglo-Français Blanc et OrangeA rare large French-English pack scenthound in white and orange. Sociable and gentle with people and dogs, but a dedicated big-game worker needing space and hard exercise.View breed guide →

Grand Anglo-Français TricoloreA large tricolour French-English pack scenthound bred for big game. Sociable and gentle with people and dogs, but a tireless worker built for the hunting field.View breed guide →

Grand Bleu de GascogneA large, noble French scenthound with a distinctive blue-mottled coat and deep voice. Gentle and sociable, but a slow, dedicated tracker needing space and exercise.View breed guide →

Grand Griffon VendéenThe largest of the Vendéen griffon scenthounds, a rough-coated French big-game hunter. Spirited and hardy, but headstrong, vocal and very demanding to exercise.View breed guide →

Greenland DogAn ancient Arctic sled dog of immense stamina and a powerful pack instinct. Bold, hardy and energetic, but independent, vocal and unsuited to inexperienced owners.View breed guide →

GreyhoundThe ultimate couch potato — despite their racing reputation, retired greyhounds need surprisingly little exercise.View breed guide →

HamiltonstövareA handsome tricolour Swedish scenthound bred to hunt hare and fox alone. Friendly, even-tempered and good with family, but a stamina-rich worker driven by scent.View breed guide →

Hanover HoundA powerful German tracking hound (Hannoverscher Schweisshund) bred to trail wounded big game over long distances. Calm and devoted, but a serious specialist for experienced hunting homes.View breed guide →

HovawartA large German working and guarding breed, devoted to its family and naturally protective. Confident and versatile, but independent-minded and best suited to experienced, active owners.View breed guide →

Hungarian VizslaAn affectionate, high-octane gundog known as the "velcro dog" for its need to be by your side at all times.View breed guide →

HuskadorA high-energy, friendly cross of the Husky and the Labrador. Sociable and clever, but athletic, prone to roaming and heavy shedding, needing committed exercise and training.View breed guide →

Ibizan HoundAn elegant, athletic Spanish sighthound from the Balearic Islands, famed for its high jumping and agility. Affectionate but independent, with a strong prey drive and a need to run.View breed guide →

Irish DoodleAn elegant, friendly cross of the playful Irish Setter and the clever Poodle. Affectionate, biddable and often low-shedding, but energetic and needing regular grooming and exercise.View breed guide →

Irish Red and White SetterAn athletic Irish bird-dog, slightly sturdier and more biddable than its all-red cousin. Friendly, affectionate and trainable, but a high-energy gundog that needs plenty of exercise.View breed guide →

Irish SetterThe flame-red gundog — exuberant, friendly and wonderful with children, but high-energy and slow to grow up.View breed guide →

Irish Water SpanielThe tallest of the spaniels, a curly-coated water retriever with a distinctive rat-like tail. Intelligent, eager and affectionate, with a low-shedding coat that needs regular care.View breed guide →

JämthundA large Swedish elkhound spitz bred to hunt moose and bear. Hardy, calm and brave, devoted to its family, but independent and strongly driven, needing an active, experienced owner.View breed guide →

Karst ShepherdA Slovenian livestock guardian from the Karst plateau, devoted and watchful over its family and flock. Calm but protective and independent, needing space and an experienced owner.View breed guide →

Kazakh TazyA Central Asian sighthound bred to course hare, fox and gazelle across the steppe. Affectionate with family but independent and aloof, with a powerful prey drive and need to run.View breed guide →

LabradoodleA friendly Labrador × Poodle crossbreed — sociable, often lower-shedding, and a popular family choice.View breed guide →

Labrador RetrieverThe UK’s most popular family dog — friendly, biddable and brilliant with children, but needs proper exercise.View breed guide →

LabskyAnother name for the Labrador–Husky cross: an athletic, sociable dog with plenty of drive. Friendly and intelligent, but needs serious exercise and can inherit the Husky's independence and wanderlust.View breed guide →

Large MünsterländerA versatile German pointing-and-retrieving gundog with a striking black-and-white coat. Affectionate, biddable and great with families, but a true working dog needing ample exercise.View breed guide →

LurcherA Lurcher is a sighthound crossed with a working breed such as a collie or terrier — a type rather than a fixed cross. Typically gentle and calm indoors with a strong chase instinct outdoors. Coat, size and drive vary enormously depending on which parents they take after.View breed guide →

Magyar AgárA Hungarian sighthound and coursing breed, sturdier than the Greyhound. Calm and affectionate at home, with bursts of speed, a strong prey drive and reserve with strangers.View breed guide →

Old English SheepdogA large, shaggy English herding breed with a famously profuse coat. Affectionate, gentle and good-natured, but the coat is hugely demanding and it needs regular exercise.View breed guide →

OtterhoundA large, rough-coated British scenthound bred to hunt otter in water. Boisterous, friendly and affectionate, but independent, vocal and needing serious exercise.View breed guide →

PoitevinA large French pack scenthound bred for hunting wolf and deer over long distances. Sociable and gentle with its pack, but a tireless worker built for the field.View breed guide →

Polish GreyhoundA large, powerful Polish sighthound (Chart Polski) bred to course hare, fox and deer. Brave and loyal to its family, but independent, reserved and strong-willed with a high prey drive.View breed guide →

Polish HoundA Polish scenthound (Ogar Polski) with a deep voice and great stamina. Gentle and friendly with family, but a determined tracker with a strong nose and loud bay.View breed guide →

PudelpointerA German versatile hunting dog crossing the Poodle and Pointer, with a harsh weatherproof coat. Highly intelligent, biddable and tireless in the field, but needs a serious working outlet and an active owner.View breed guide →

Rastreador BrasileiroA Brazilian scenthound bred from coonhound and foxhound stock to track big game over rough terrain. Hardy, sociable and tireless, but a dedicated working hound with a strong nose and powerful exercise needs.View breed guide →

Rhodesian RidgebackAn athletic African hound with the signature ridge — loyal and good with family, but strong-willed and independent.View breed guide →

Romanian Raven Shepherd DogA Romanian herding and guarding breed, typically black-coated (the 'raven'), used to protect and drive livestock. Loyal and watchful, with a strong protective streak that needs experienced handling and socialisation.View breed guide →

RottleA large, intelligent Rottweiler and Poodle cross (also called Rottiepoo) that is loyal, trainable and often protective. Needs experienced handling, firm socialisation and plenty of exercise; size varies with the Poodle parent used.View breed guide →

RottweilerA powerful, confident guardian that’s calm and devoted in the right hands — but needs an experienced owner.View breed guide →

Rough CollieThe classic 'Lassie' collie, an elegant Scottish herding dog with a luxurious coat. Gentle, devoted and highly trainable, wonderful with families, but the heavy coat needs regular grooming and it can be vocal.View breed guide →

Saarloos WolfdogA Dutch breed created by crossing a German Shepherd with a wolf, retaining a wolf-like look and nature. Reserved, cautious and strongly bonded to its pack, it is shy of strangers and needs a very experienced, patient owner.View breed guide →

Saint Miguel Cattle DogA robust cattle-herding and guarding dog from the Azorean island of São Miguel (Cão de Fila de São Miguel). Confident, protective and territorial, it is a capable working dog that needs an experienced owner and firm socialisation.View breed guide →

SalukiAn ancient, graceful sighthound — gentle and quiet at home, but with an enormous prey drive and a will of its own.View breed guide →

SamoyedThe smiling Arctic breed — friendly, gentle and sociable, wrapped in a vast, constantly-shedding white coat.View breed guide →

SheepadoodleA large, gentle Old English Sheepdog–Poodle cross that is affectionate and good with families. Often low-shedding but the thick coat needs frequent grooming. Size and herding drive vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

SloughiA lean, elegant North African sighthound, the Arabian or Berber greyhound. Deeply bonded but reserved and sensitive, with a powerful chase instinct and a quiet, dignified manner.View breed guide →

Slovak CuvacA large white Slovakian flock-guarding dog bred to defend livestock in the Tatras. Brave, devoted and territorial, with strong protective instincts and an independent guardian's mind.View breed guide →

Slovak Rough-haired PointerA versatile wire-haired Slovakian hunting dog, also called the Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer. Calm, trainable and devoted, an all-round pointer-retriever that thrives with active, outdoorsy owners.View breed guide →

Smooth CollieThe short-coated variety of the Collie, an elegant Scottish herding dog. Gentle, intelligent and devoted, an easy-to-train family companion that is far lower-maintenance than its rough-coated cousin.View breed guide →

Spinone ItalianoA shaggy, soulful Italian pointing gundog known for its gentle, easy-going nature. Patient and sociable, an affectionate family companion that is calmer than many gundogs but still loves outdoor activity.View breed guide →

SpringadorAn energetic, intelligent Springer–Labrador cross bred from two working gundogs. Loyal and trainable, but needs a lot of exercise and mental work. Energy and coat vary depending on which parent they take after.View breed guide →

Standard PoodleOne of the most intelligent breeds — elegant, low-shedding and eager to learn, with high grooming demands.View breed guide →

Transylvanian HoundAn old Hungarian scenthound bred to hunt across the Carpathians. Even-tempered and devoted at home, but a tough, scent-driven worker that needs lots of exercise.View breed guide →

WeimaranerThe athletic "grey ghost" — a striking, devoted gundog that bonds intensely but needs enormous amounts of exercise and company.View breed guide →

White Swiss Shepherd DogA white herding breed developed from white German Shepherd lines. Intelligent, loyal and gentler than the GSD, but active and needs training, exercise and grooming.View breed guide →

Wirehaired Pointing GriffonA versatile wirehaired pointing and retrieving gundog (Korthals Griffon). Affectionate, biddable and keen, but a working dog that needs serious daily exercise.View breed guide →

Wirehaired VizslaA robust wirehaired version of the Hungarian Vizsla, built for tougher terrain. Affectionate, loyal and gentle, but very energetic and prone to being a velcro dog.View breed guide →

giant breeds (43)

Bernese Mountain DogA gentle giant — calm, affectionate and wonderful with families, if you have the space and a big heart.View breed guide →

Black Russian TerrierA large, powerful Russian guardian breed developed for military and protection work. Highly intelligent, confident and devoted to its family, but strong-willed and protective, requiring an experienced owner and committed grooming.View breed guide →

BorzoiA tall, elegant Russian sighthound bred to course wolves. Gentle and quiet indoors but aloof and independent, with a very strong prey drive and the need for safe space to run.View breed guide →

BroholmerA large, calm Danish mastiff-type guarding dog. Good-natured and steady with its family, watchful with strangers, and surprisingly low-key indoors for its size.View breed guide →

Bucovina Shepherd DogA massive Romanian livestock guardian bred to protect flocks from predators. Devoted and fearless with its family, but highly territorial, independent and not a fit for novices.View breed guide →

Cão de Gado TransmontanoA huge Portuguese livestock guardian from the Trás-os-Montes region, bred to protect flocks from wolves. Calm and devoted with family, but powerfully territorial and independent.View breed guide →

Carpathian Shepherd DogA large Romanian mountain livestock guardian bred to fend off wolves and bears. Devoted and balanced with its family, but territorial, independent and best for experienced rural owners.View breed guide →

Caucasian ShepherdAn enormous livestock-guardian breed — fiercely protective and devoted, but strictly for very experienced owners.View breed guide →

Central Asian Shepherd DogAn ancient Central Asian livestock guardian (Alabai), massive and self-assured. Calm and devoted with its family, but powerfully territorial, independent and strictly for experienced owners.View breed guide →

Dogue de BordeauxThe French mastiff — powerful, calm and devoted, with a famously soulful wrinkled face and a short lifespan.View breed guide →

English MastiffOne of the heaviest breeds of all — a calm, gentle and devoted giant that is quiet and low-energy indoors.View breed guide →

Estrela Mountain DogA large Portuguese livestock-guarding breed from the Estrela mountains. Calm and devoted to its family but naturally protective and wary of strangers, needing space, socialisation and an experienced owner.View breed guide →

Fila BrasileiroA massive Brazilian mastiff bred for tracking and guarding, famed for intense devotion to its owner and deep distrust of strangers (ojeriza). Powerful and protective, it demands the most experienced of owners.View breed guide →

Great DaneA truly enormous yet gentle and affectionate "gentle giant" — surprisingly calm for its size.View breed guide →

Greater Swiss Mountain DogA large, powerful tricolour Swiss draught and farm dog. Gentle, loyal and good-natured with family, but big, strong and slow-maturing, with a shorter lifespan.View breed guide →

Irish WolfhoundThe tallest of all breeds — a gentle, calm and good-natured sighthound that is, sadly, one of the shortest-lived.View breed guide →

Kangal Shepherd DogA powerful Turkish livestock guardian bred to protect flocks from wolves and bears. Calm and devoted to its family, but immensely strong, territorial and independent — strictly for experienced owners with space.View breed guide →

KomondorA giant Hungarian livestock-guarding dog famous for its mop-like corded white coat. Calm and devoted to its family, but fiercely protective, independent and strongly territorial.View breed guide →

KuvaszA large white Hungarian livestock-guardian dog, devoted and intensely protective of its family. Independent, courageous and territorial, requiring confident, experienced ownership.View breed guide →

LandseerA giant black-and-white water-rescue dog, recognised as a breed distinct from the Newfoundland in continental Europe. Gentle, calm and devoted, a superb but very large family companion.View breed guide →

LeonbergerA majestic giant German breed with a lion-like mane and gentle disposition. Calm, friendly and devoted, an excellent family dog, but huge, heavy-shedding and short-lived.View breed guide →

Macedonian Shepherd DogA large Balkan livestock-guardian dog (Šarplaninac-type) bred to defend flocks from predators. Courageous, independent and intensely protective, requiring confident, experienced ownership.View breed guide →

Maremmano-Abruzzese SheepdogA large white Italian livestock-guardian dog bred to live with flocks. Dignified, devoted and intensely protective, but independent, territorial and best suited to rural, experienced homes.View breed guide →

Neapolitan MastiffA massive, heavily wrinkled Italian guardian dog with a calm, watchful nature. Devoted and protective of its family, but enormous, slobbery, short-lived and unsuited to inexperienced owners.View breed guide →

NewfoundlandA sweet, water-loving gentle giant with a reputation as a natural "nanny dog" — devoted and patient, but big and high-maintenance.View breed guide →

NewfypooA giant, gentle cross of the placid Newfoundland and the clever Poodle. Calm, devoted and good with children, but a large dog with serious grooming needs and a shorter lifespan typical of giant breeds.View breed guide →

Presa CanarioA large, powerful Canary Island catch-and-guard dog. Confident, calm and deeply protective of its family, but its strength, dominance and guarding drive demand a highly experienced owner and thorough socialisation.View breed guide →

PyredoodleA large, calm cross of the guardian Pyrenean Mountain Dog and the clever Poodle. Devoted and gentle at home, but independent and naturally protective, needing space, socialisation and experienced handling.View breed guide →

Pyrenean MastiffA giant Spanish livestock-guardian from the Pyrenees, calm and gentle with its family but a formidable protector of its flock. Even-tempered and affectionate, but its size and guarding instinct need space and experience.View breed guide →

Pyrenean Mountain DogThe majestic Great Pyrenees — a calm, devoted family guardian, independent and prone to night-time barking.View breed guide →

Rafeiro do AlentejoA large Portuguese livestock-guarding dog, calm and watchful by day and alert at night. Devoted and serious about its guarding role, but independent and territorial, needing space and an experienced owner.View breed guide →

Romanian Mioritic Shepherd DogA large, shaggy-coated Romanian livestock guardian from the Carpathians. Calm and devoted to its family but fiercely protective and independent, requiring space, socialisation and an experienced owner.View breed guide →

Saint BerdoodleA giant, good-natured cross of the patient St. Bernard and the intelligent Poodle. Gentle and devoted with families, but a very large dog needing space, grooming and the usual giant-breed health awareness.View breed guide →

Saint BernardThe classic gentle giant — calm, patient and wonderful with children, though it drools, sheds and lives a shorter giant-breed life.View breed guide →

Saint WeilerA giant St. Bernard and Rottweiler cross that is typically calm, devoted and naturally protective. Its huge size demands space, careful early training and an experienced owner, and lifespan is shorter as with most giant breeds.View breed guide →

ŠarplaninacA powerful Balkan livestock-guardian from the Šar mountains, calm and devoted but a serious, independent protector. Deeply loyal to its family and flock, but territorial and reserved, needing space and an experienced owner.View breed guide →

Scottish DeerhoundA tall, rough-coated Scottish sighthound bred to course red deer. Gentle, dignified and devoted, calm and quiet indoors, but it needs space, secure exercise and has a strong chase instinct outdoors.View breed guide →

South Russian OvcharkaA huge, shaggy white Russian flock-guardian with a fierce protective drive. Devoted to its own family but highly territorial, dominant and suspicious of outsiders — strictly a dog for experienced owners.View breed guide →

Spanish MastiffA massive Spanish livestock-guardian bred to defend flocks from wolves. Calm, dignified and devoted, but immensely powerful, territorial and independent — best for experienced owners with space.View breed guide →

Tatra Shepherd DogA large white Polish flock-guarding dog from the Tatra mountains. Calm, gentle and devoted to its family, but independent, territorial and protective of livestock.View breed guide →

Tibetan MastiffAn ancient, independent guardian breed — watchful and devoted to its family, but powerful, aloof and territorial.View breed guide →

TornjakA large Balkan livestock-guarding dog from the Bosnian and Croatian mountains. Calm, devoted and steady, but independent, territorial and built to guard flocks.View breed guide →

TosaA massive Japanese fighting and guarding mastiff. Calm and dignified with its family, but immensely powerful and dog-aggressive; restricted under UK law.View breed guide →

Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue.