32 Dog Breeds that Begin with A

Affenpinscher

Originating from Germany, Affenpinschers were bred as ratters in homes, shops, and stables. Also known as the Monkey Terrier, this intelligent dog makes an excellent house pet.

Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound hails from Afghanistan and the original name of this breed was Tazi. The thick, silky coat of this hound is the distinguishing feature of this beautiful breed.

Aidi

This Berger dog is primarily used for guarding livestock. However, Aidis do have some hunting abilities and are excellent in locating prey by scent.

Abruzzese Mastiff

This loyal and affectionate breed was originally developed for guarding livestock against bears and other predators. Although Abruzzese Mastiffs are wary of strangers, they get along well with their people and other pets.

Airedale Terrier

Airedale Terrier is often regarded as the “King of Terriers” because it is the largest of them all. This large breed was originally bred in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire.

Afaird

Afraid is a large, designer dog that is the result of a cross between the Afghan Hound and the Briard. It is an ideal dog breed for active families because these strong pups thrive on an energetic lifestyle.

Akbash

This rare, purebred dog is native to Turkey and is primarily used for guarding livestock. The Akbash is one of the oldest canines in the world as reports of this breed go back as far as 750 B.C.

Akita

This powerful and intimidating dog hails from the mountainous regions of northern Japan. Owing to their imposing stature, Akitas were originally used for guarding royalty and nobility.

Abruzzenhund

This guardian dog hails from Central Italy and is a purebred sheepdog. These noble canines are particularly indigenous to Abruzzo and the Maremma region of Tuscany and Lazio.

Alaskan Klee Kai

This spitz-type breed was developed as a smaller version of the Siberian Husky in the late 20^th century. The Alaskan Klee Kai is bred in three sizes and its weight ranges from 5-22 pounds.

Alaskan Malamute

These large dogs were originally developed for their strength and endurance. They were used as a sled dog to haul heavy freight.

American Bulldog

Although they are stock and muscular, American Bulldogs can be quite agile and are built for chasing. These canines can also be used as cultural icons because they are a part of American history.

Affenhuahua

These cute pups were developed (as a toy breed) by combining Affenpinscher and Chihuahua. Although they can be a little territorial at times, Affenhuahuas are suitable for apartment life.

American English Coonhound

These hunting dogs are American by birth, but English by ancestry. They are incredibly famous for their speed, endurance, and loud voice.

American Eskimo Dog

This companion dog comes from Germany and is the perfect package of strength, agility, and beauty. The white coat and black eyes of Eskies can make anyone their admirer.

American Foxhound

These hounds were bred to locate and hunt foxes by scent. In contrast to their hunting background, they are extremely kind and loyal to their people.

American Hairless Terrier

This canine descends from a single Rat Terrier that was born in 1972 (in Louisiana). It is the only hairless dog breed that is indigenous to the United States.

Afador

This hybrid breed was developed by crossing an Afghan Hound with a Labrador. Afadors originated from Alaska around the year 2000 and are still very rare.

American Leopard Hound

The ancestors of this purebred dog came (to the United States) from Mexico alongside Spanish conquistadors. These hunting pups have all the desired qualities, like speed, energy, and intelligence.

American Pit Bull Terrier

Although Pit Bull Terriers were originally developed to bait bulls, they have evolved into excellent family dogs. They are efficient in all the chores, ranging from helping in the farm to being gentle around children.

American Pugabull

A cross between the Pug and America Bull Dog resulted in this alert and loyal canine. Pugabulls have adopted the best qualities from both their parents and can fit nicely with all kinds of families.

American Staffordshire Terrier

Also known as AmStaffs, these dogs are stocky and muscular. The members of this breed love the company of humans and are extremely eager to please their owners.

American Water Spaniel

The American Water Spaniel was developed during the 19^th century for hunting purposes. In addition to their proficiency in water, these pups are also very comfortable on the ground.

Anatolian Shepherd Dog

As the name suggests, this breed was originally developed for guarding livestock in the peninsula of Anatolia. The size and color of these dogs are quite similar to livestock that makes it difficult for the predator to detect them. 

Appenzeller Sennenhunde

Also known as the Appenzeller Mountain Dog, this breed was bred as an all-around farm dog. It comes from the Swiss Alps where it was used for herding livestock, pulling carts, and guarding farms. 

Artois Hound

This rare breed is a descendent of the Bloodhound and is quite effective in chasing hares, foxes, and boars. Thanks to their robust bodies, Artois Hounds are equally quick through thick overgrowth and barren fields.

Australian Cattle Dog

These herding dogs were originally bred for driving cattle over long distances. Because of their intelligence and sturdy personality, these cattle dogs are still a popular choice for herding.

Australian Kelpie

This breed was primarily developed for mustering livestock with little or no guidance. Kelpies have been quite successful in achieving this goal, and that’s the reason why they are exported throughout the world.

Australian Retriever

This hybrid breed was developed by crossing an Australian Shepherd with a Golden Retriever. Australian Retrievers have acquired some of the best traits from their parents. They are loyal, friendly, and extremely gentle with children.

Australian Shepherd

In contrast to its name, the Australian Shepherd was initially bred in the United States of America. Also known as the ‘Aussie’, this working breed has an abundant supply of energy.

Australian Terrier

These small dogs were bred (in Australia) to hunt rodents and snakes. However, these self-confident terriers are also acknowledged as one of the best watchdogs in the world.   

Azawakh

This sighthound originates from West Africa and is named after the Azawakh Valley in the Sahara Desert. They are often used for guarding camps because there isn’t enough game in the region.