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25 Dog Breeds that Begin with P

Papillon resting on couch

Papillon

This spaniel type dog breed originated in three different countries (France, Spain, and Belgium). Papillons are extremely active, friendly, and smart canines that are often used as companions for families.

Parson Russell Terrier

Parson Russell Terrier standing on tall grass and weeds

This white terrier was developed in the south of England in the 18th century. Parson Russell Terriers were originally bred for hunting foxes from their dens. However, these small pups can also good pets because of their affectionate and pleasant nature.

Patterdale Terrier

Patterdale Terrier puppy laying in grass

This courageous and active dog breed originated in England. These confident and intelligent canines were originally bred for the hunting of foxes and pests. Nowadays, Patterdale Terriers are regularly used as guard dogs due to their daring and dynamic nature.

Pekingese

Pekingese standing in grass with road in background

This toy breed hails from China and is also known as the ‘lion dog’. This is because their brown hairy look is quite similar to that of a lion. For centuries, these pooches were raised as beloved companions of the royal family. Pekingese are still carrying that loving attitude and doing quite well as pets.

Peruvian Inca Orchid

Peruvian Inca Orchid on a leash outdoors

This hairless dog breed was developed in Peru. These energetic and vigilant pooches are quite popular and are also a part of Peru’s cultural legacy. Although Peruvian Inca Orchids were bred for hunting (sighthounds), they are always considered to be best as pets.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Pembroke Welsh Corgi sitting in tall grass and dandelions

This spitz-type dog breed originated in Wales and was initially bred for the herding of livestock. Pembroke Welsh Corgis make excellent pets because they are vigorous, intelligent, and easy to train. Likewise, they are quite friendly with children and other pets.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen standing in grass

This dog breed was first developed in France for tracking hares. Petit Basset Griffons have a pleasant nature and enjoy life as well as people. They mostly like outdoor activities, like running and cycling, and can also become good watchdogs.

Pharaoh Hound

Pharaoh Hound laying down in grass

This ancient breed not only hails from Malta, but it is also the national dog of Malta. These canines were traditionally bred to hunt rabbits with pharaohs. They are loyal, protective, and very friendly towards their people. All these characteristics are ideal for becoming good companions. 

Plott Hound

Plott Hound laying on beach

This courageous dog breed was originally developed in North Carolina for hunting bears and wild pigs. Plott Hounds still keep their hunting instincts, and these confident canines are used as pack hunters. In addition to that, they are also seen in dog sports and tracking activities.

Polish Greyhound

2 Polish Greyhound standing among tall grass and plants

This sighthound was initially bred, in Poland, for hunting. Polish Greyhounds are very brave, confident, and loyal to their owners. Alongside these traits, their barking habits make them useful watchdogs.

Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Polish Lowland Sheepdog outside in nature

This sheepdog comes from Poland and was originally used as a herding and guarding dog. In fact, these pups are still used as working dogs in that part of the world. Although they are fearless, Polish Lowland Sheepdogs have a submissive and pleasant attitude towards humans and other dogs.

Pomeranian

Pomeranian sitting on large bolder

The name of this spitz-type breed comes from the place of its origination, the Pomerania region. It is located in a land that bordered Poland and Germany. Pomeranians are solid, vigorous, and have great competing skills in quickness and obedience activities. These independent pooches can also make good companions if they are trained by an experienced owner.

Poodle

Close up of Poodle outdoors in nature

The Poodle originates from Germany and is one of the oldest breeds for hunting waterfowl. These canines are not only stylish, but also clever, loyal, and affectionate. Generally, Poodles are ideal companions for families and are particularly friendly with kids.

Porcelaine

This French hound was traditionally used to hunt stags and bunnies. Recently, Porcelaines have shown that they can also become good pets because of their loyal and gentle attitude towards humans.

Portuguese Podengo

Portuguese Podengo running in grass

This multi-sized dog breed was originally bred in Portugal to hunt rabbits. They are friendly, highly active, and always love to delight their parents. Likewise, they are also quite comfortable with kids.

Portuguese Pointer

Portuguese Pointer in point on grassy hill

This breed hails from Portugal and was developed as a gundog. Portuguese Pointers were used for hunting, especially red-legged partridge. Nowadays, they can become great guarding dogs because of their natural barking skill.

Portuguese Sheepdog

The medium-sized dog originated in Portugal and was initially used for herding livestock. These super smart and adorable dogs can also make outstanding family companions as well as guard dogs.

Portuguese Water Dog

Portuguese Water Dog laying on park bench

This Portuguese canine was bred as a working breed. These water dogs were used to herd lost gear and fish into nets. Nowadays, they are joyful and affectionate family companions with an intelligent and obedient temperament.

Presa Canario

Presa Canario sitting next to ranch fence

This dog breed is a Molosser-type breed that originated in the Canary Islands. Presa Canarios were initially raised for working cattle. However, they can also become great family companions as well as guard dogs because of their loyalty.

Pug

Pug on wood deck with wooden wall behind it

This toy breed originated in China and was developed to be companions, especially for royal families. Today, they are still serving as pets because of their sociable and playful nature.

Puli

Puli standing in grass

This dog breed originated in Hungry and was bred for herding and guarding livestock. Nowadays, these energetic, intelligent, and loyal pups are also used as companions for families.

Pumi

Pumi sitting on park bench

This is another Hungarian breed that was developed for herding cattle and sheep. The intelligence and protective nature of Pumis allow them to become great family dogs.

Pungsan

Pungsan laying on dirt hill

This rare dog breed originated in North Korea and was used for hunting large animals. Pungsans are strong, agile, and loyal towards their people. They are excellent protectors of their family and will defend them at all costs.

Pyrenean Mastiff

Pyrenean Mastiff laying in snow

This large dog hails from Aragón, which is located in northeast Spain. Pyrenean Mastiffs were initially used to guard livestock. Nowadays, they make good family pets because of their noble and calm nature.

Pyrenean Shepherd

Pyrenean Shepherd laying in grass

The dog breed originated in the mountains of southern France and northern Spain. Although they were originally used for herding livestock, Pyrenean Shepherds are very passionate while competing in dog sports.

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