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43 Popular United States Dog Breeds

Looking to know more about the 43 United States dog breeds?

There’s little doubt that people in the United States love their dogs. Most people in the states that own dogs treat them like one of their own family members.

In some cases, they are considered their owners “children”. But dog breeds in the US aren’t just used as family companions.

They’re also used as therapy dogs, military dogs, police dogs, drug-sniffing dogs, search and rescue dogs, and so much more.

Today we’ll talk about all of the different types of amazing dog breeds that originated in the US as well as all of the different types of jobs that they do.

So let’s not waste another minute:

~ TABLE OF CONTENTS ~

1. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog

Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog with owner in a competition

The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog is a large breed of dog that weighs between 50-100 pounds.

They are said to resemble the early bulldogs of England and were originally used to “catch” cattle, hog, and other animals.

They are very muscular in stature and are described as loyal, intelligent, active, and protective.

Did You Know?

  • The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog derived its name from a man named Buck Lane who started a breeding program for these bulldogs when their numbers depleted in the American Civil War. He believed they were a noble breed, hence why he gave them the name “Blue Blood”.
  • In the breeding program started by Buck Lane, each stud who was used to breed more Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldogs was named “Otto”.
  • When Papa Buck Lane died in 1943 after being hit by a train, his sidekick Otto visited his grave site regularly to guard his grave.

2. American Bulldog

American Bulldog standing against a white background

The American Bulldog is a large breed of dog that weighs between 60-100 pounds.

They are a very agile and athletic breed that were originally used for working on the farm. The breed is described as loving, affectionate, happy, and energetic.

Did You Know?

  • The American Bulldog is extremely muscular and can jump over three feet in the air
  • When happy or excited the American Bulldog is extremely silly and is often referred to as being “clownish”
  • The American Bulldog Breed almost went extinct after WWII. It was two men named John Johnson and Alan Scott who can be credited for resurrecting the breed.
[ FAQ: Are American Bulldogs Pit Bulls? ]

3. American Bully

American bully photographed on white background

The American Bully, not to be confused with the American Bulldog, comes in 4 different sizes and can stand anywhere between 14 and 23 inches tall.

The breed was formed as an extension of the American Pit Bull Terrier and was created specifically as a companion breed. They are said to be confident, gentle, friendly, and athletic.

Did You Know?

  • The American Bully was only recently developed in the 1980’s and 1990’s and was created to be the ultimate companion dog.
  • American Bully puppies are very expensive and can cost anywhere from $2000 to $7000.
  • American Bullies are often confused with Pit Bulls but these are two distinct breeds. The American Bully has a larger head, shorter legs, more muscles, and a wider build than the Pit bull.

4. Alaskan Klee Kai

Alaskan Klee Kai adult and a puppy

The Alaskan Klee Kai is a small breed of dog that weighs between 10-15 pounds. It has a very similar appearance to a husky but is obviously much smaller in size.

Also, unlike the husky, the Alaskan Klee Kai was not bred to pull sleds or work. Rather, it was bred to be a companion dog.

The breed is described as intelligent, active, and people shy. They don’t like to stray too far from their owners’ side.

Did You Know?

  • The Alaskan Klee Kai is a newer breed of dog that only dates back to the 1970’s
  • While they look much like a husky, the Alaskan Klee Kai is a breed all of their own
  • Alaskan Klee Kais have unique eye colors that come in 3 different varieties: blue, brown, or green. Their eyes can also be bi-colored (two different colored eyes), or parti-eyed (two colors in same eye).

5. Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamute on white background

The Alaskan Malamute is a large breed of dog that weighs between 75-100 pounds.

The breed has long been used as working sled dogs, and their thick fur coats are designed to withstand the cold weather of the Arctic.

The breed loves to work but is also described as playful, outgoing, and a friend to everyone.

Did You Know?

  • The first Alaskan Malamutes date back to over 5000 years ago when they were used as companions and working dogs to the first North American settlers.
  • The main job of the Alaskan Malamute is to pull sleds, but they have also been known to help their owners track bears.
  • During the Gold Rush, Alaskan Malamutes were used to carry large amounts of supplies over mountain passes. In WWII they were used to sniff mines and carry weapons. They’ve also been known to be great search and rescue dogs.

6. American English Coonhound

American English Coonhound standing on cemented floor

The American English Coonhound is a large breed of dog that weighs between 45-75 pounds. (image source)

The breed derived its name from it’s original job of hunting racoons. The American English Coonhound is often defined as alert, confident, and friendly.

Did You Know?

  • George Washington was one of the first people in North America to own a Coonhound
  • Coonhounds can climb trees
  • The Coonhound is among the top 12 “most talkative” dog breeds.

7. American Eskimo Dog

American Eskimo dog breed standing on the lawn and looking to the left

The American Eskimo Dog comes in three different sizes – standard (25-35 pounds), miniature (10-20 pounds), and toy (6-10 pounds).

They were originally used as farm dogs and watchdogs but also spent a lot of time in circus performances. The breed is often described as lively, fun-loving, and eager to please.

Did You Know?

  • The American Eskimo Dog got its name because of its “snowy” white coat.
  • The American Eskimo Dog is very intelligent and was commonly used alongside clowns dancing, walking tightropes, and performing other tricks.
  • The American Eskimo Dog comes in a unique “cream” color variety.

8. American Foxhound Dog

American Foxhound Dog in a park

The American Foxhound Dog is a large breed that weighs between 60-70 pounds.

It comes as no surprise that their original purpose was hunting fox. The breed is often described as being gentle, reserved, and well-mannered in the home.

Did You Know?

  • The American Foxhound is not recommended for novice owners. They require a great deal of exercise or they can become destructive. They are also very loud and can be difficult to housetrain and housebreak.
  • George Washington was thought to play a role in the development of the English Foxhound.
  • Once the Foxhound catches a scent they have a one-track mind. Calling them back can be difficult.

9. American Hairless Terrier

American Hairless Terrier puppy standing on the lawn

The American Hairless Terrier is a small breed of dog that weighs between 12-16 pounds.

The breed is a descendant of the Rat Terrier which was originally used for exterminating rats.

With that being said, due to their hairless nature, this breed is not meant to hunt. It does, however, still hold its original hunting instincts and is said to be clever, inquisitive, and eager to please.

Did You Know?

  • As the name gives away, the American Hairless Terrier is completely devoid of any hair on its body.
  • Unlike most dogs, the American Hairless Terrier has no natural instinct for swimming. They are not good swimmers and should be closely monitored around water.
  • Because the American Hairless Terrier has no hair, it is susceptible to sunburn and needs to wear sunscreen when outside.

10. American Leopard Hound

american leopard hound dog at the beach

The American Leopard Hound is a mid-size breed of dog that can weigh anywhere between 35-70 pounds.

The breed has extremely strong tracking abilities and was originally used for hunting racoon, squirrel, bobcat, bear, and any other prey you might find up in a tree.

They are described as being loving, affectionate, and as forming strong bonds with their owners.

Did You Know?

  • The American Leopard Hound is one of the oldest tree dog breeds in the United States
  • The American Leopard Hound is a very tough breed of dog and can handle extreme weather in both directions (heat and cold).
  • The American Leopard Hound is extremely easy to train as they are always eager to please their owners.

11. American Water Spaniel

American Water Spaniel in the river

The American Water Spaniel is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 30-45 pounds.

The breed has been around since the 18th century and was originally used as a gun dog, as well as for retrieving bird game. The breed is often described as happy, energetic, and outdoorsy. They also have a tendency towards stubbornness.

Did You Know?

  • The American Water Spaniel has long been used to retrieve game both on land and in the water. They often accompanied their owners by boat.
  • In the beginning of the 20th century when the popularity of hunting died down, so did the popularity of the American Water Spaniel. As a result they almost went extinct.
  • The American Water Spaniel is still scarce in numbers. It’s estimated that there are less than 3000 in existence today.

12. Australian Shepherd

A beautiful Australian Shepherd plays outside in the meadow

The Australian Shepherd is a mid-size breed of dog that weighs between 40-65 pounds.

They have long been used on herding dogs and are popular on the rodeo circuit. The breed has a strong work drive and is described as being intelligent and loyal. They are happiest when given a job to do.

Did You Know?

  • The Australian Shepherd has been featured in many cowboy movies and television shows, and is often found at rodeos and horse shows.
  • The Australian Shepherd dog has long had a docked tail to prevent injury when working.
  • The Australian Shepherd is often known for its two different eye colors (called heterochromia). Combinations can be of brown, blue, hazel, green, and/or amber.

13. Black and Tan Coonhound Dog

Black and Tan Coonhound Dog in the forest

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a large breed of dog that can weigh upwards of 110 pounds.

They have a very sensitive nose that makes them the perfect breed for sniffing out racoons. Today the breed is described as being friendly, alert, and graceful.

Did You Know?

  • The Black and Tan Coonhound is thought to be a combination of the Bloodhound and the Foxhound.
  • In addition to hunting racoon, the Black and Tan Coonhound has also been used to hunt larger game like deer, mountain lion, and bear.
  • The Black and Tan Coonhound was the first Coonhound to be recognized by the UKC in 1900.

14. American Cocker Spaniel

black American Cocker Spaniel outdoors

The American Cocker Spaniel is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 20-30 pounds.

The breed is the smallest sporting Spaniel listed with the AKC and was originally used to track and hunt birds like quail and woodcock. The breed is often described as being happy, gentle, and intelligent.

Did You Know?

  • Cocker Spaniels were the inspiration for the first boating shoes made by Paul Sperry. He designed them after he saw his Cocker Spaniel running on ice with such good traction.
  • The most famous Cocker Spaniel is Lady from the hit Disney movie, Lady and the Tramp
  • George Clooney has a Cocker Spaniel named Einstein. David and Victoria Beckham, as well as Oprah, are all famous Cocker Spaniel owners too.

15. American Pit Bull Terrier

American Pit Bull Terrier on white background

The American Pit Bull Terrier is a large breed of dog that weighs up to 80 pounds.

The breed was originally created as a form of entertainment in spectator sports like bull baiting and dog fighting.

Sadly, the Pitbull is a very misunderstood breed that gets a bad reputation because of their rough history and tough looking exterior.

Though many people think them to be aggressive, the exact opposite could not be more true. Pitbulls are a very gentle, loving breed of dog that do excellent with children.

Did You Know?

  • Once the sport of Bull Baiting became illegal, Pit bulls were often used in the sport of ratting where they competed to see who could kill the most rats in the shortest period of time.
  • Pit bulls were featured as mascots in the 20th century often appearing on recruitment posters for the army.
  • Pit bulls were often nicknamed “nannies” because they were so good with children.

16. American Staffordshire Terrier

American Staffordshire Terrier standing on a park foot path

The American Staffordshire Terrier is a large breed of dog that weighs between 50-75 pounds.

Like the Pitbull, the Staffordshire Terrier was bred to fight other dogs as well as for the purpose of bull baiting.

Despite their rough and tough history, the American Staffordshire Terrier is a very mellow breed that is often defined as smart and well-natured.

Did You Know?

  • An American Staffordshire Terrier named Stubby was ranked as a Sergeant in WWI
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier is often mistaken for a Pitbull but these are actually two distinct breeds.
  • The American Staffordshire Terrier looks fierce but would much rather snuggle and cuddle than attack. In fact, an attack by a Staffordshire Terrier is extremely unlikely.

17. Black Mouth Cur

Black Mouth Cur close up photo

The Black Mouth Cur is a large breed of dog that can weigh between 50-100 pounds. This breed has a long history of working on the farm. Their owners describe them as loyal, intelligent, and protective.

Did You Know?

  • The Black Mouth Cur can be trained for working, hunting, herding, and many other jobs.
  • The Black Mouth Cur dog has webbed toes
  • The Black Mouth Cur loves to work. Without a job to do they can become bored and destructive.

18. Blue Lacy

Blue Lacy dog standing on the hill

The Blue Lacy is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 30-50 pounds. A highly active working dog, this breed has long been used for herding hogs and cattle, tracking game, hunting deer, and guarding over the homestead. They are commonly referred to as being loyal, alert, and hard working.

Did You Know?

  • The Blue Lacy was designated as the official breed of Texas in 2005
  • The Blue Lacy is thought to have played a role in the inspiration of the movie Old Yeller
  • The Blue Lacy is a silent tracker but has a loud bay when they find their prey

19. Bluetick Coonhound

Bluetick Coonhound dog close up photo

The Bluetick Coonhound is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 45-80 pounds.

The breed is a type of scenthound that has a keen sense of smell that has long been used to track prey. Owners often define them as friendly and adventurous, with a stubborn and disobedient streak.

Did You Know?

  • A Bluetick Coonhound will think nothing of jumping on your counter if you leave food. They have a stubborn streak that allows them to turn a deaf ear when told no.
  • In their early years, Bluetick Coonhounds were used to hunt racoons as well as larger game like bears and cougar.
  • The Bluetick Coonhound is the 162nd dog breed to be listed with the AKC.

20. Boston Terrier

Boston terrier standing against a white background

The Boston Terrier is a small breed of dog that weighs between 12-25 pounds. The breed comes as a cross between Bull-type breeds and Terriers and was created to excel in ratting contests.

Today, the breed makes a loving companion and is often described as happy-go-lucky, friendly, and entertaining.

Did You Know?

  • The Boston Terrier has tuxedo-like markings that have given them the nickname “America’s Gentleman”.
  • The Boston Terrier was originally much larger in size. It was once ratting and other fighting contests were banned that the breed became much smaller in stature.
  • Helen Keller had a Boston Terrier named Phiz. It was given to her by her classmates at Radcliffe College.

21. Boykin Spaniel

Boykin Spaniel sitting on the lawn

The Boykin Spaniel is a mid-size breed of dog that weighs between 25-40 pounds. The breed was used in history to hunt waterfowl and wild turkey.

The breed is extremely agile and versatile and is often described as friendly and lovable.

Did You Know?

  • The Boykin Spaniel breed has not been around for long. It got its origins in the early 1900s.
  • South Carolina has listed the Boykin Spaniel as their state animal. In fact, they are so beloved in the state that September 1st was listed as Boykin Spaniel day.
  • The Boykin Spaniel is often confused with the Cocker Spaniel but is both larger and heavier than their cousins.

22. Carolina Dog

Carolina Dog playing fetch on the lawn

The Carolina Dog is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 30-55 pounds. The breed is thought to have derived from a group of primitive dogs, migrating with the first set of primitive humans from Asia to North America.

Today, the breed resembles the appearance of a small jackal, and is described as being independent and reserved but extremely loyal to their owners.

Did You Know?

  • Carolina Dogs are known to have a pack mentality
  • The Carolina dog is often confused with the American Dingo due to their similar appearance. The main difference is that Dingos are wild dogs that cannot be domesticated while Carolina dogs are somewhat domesticated.
  • Female Carolina Dogs dig “snout pits” or small holes in the ground that fit their muzzles.

23. Catahoula Leopard Dog

Catahoula Leopard Dog standing in the backyard

The Catahoula Leopard dog is a large breed that weighs between 50-95 pounds. They are known for their unique coat patterns and varied color of eyes.

Their natural working instinct deals in herding cows and hogs. The breed is very independent, and is often described as territorial and protective. They are loving and loyal to their family members but do not tolerate mistreatment well.

Did You Know?

  • The Catahoula Leopard dog was named the state dog of Louisiana in 1979.
  • The Catahoula Leopard dog often competes in the sport of sled racing in Canada
  • The Catahoula Leopard dog has webbed feet

24. Chinook Dog

Chinook Dog in a competition

 

The Chinook is a mid to large size breed of dog that weighs between 50-90 pounds.

This breed was originally bred for hauling and freighting but have since been used in herding and search-and-rescue missions. They are outstanding athletes but are also intelligent, loyal, and very patient.

Did You Know?

  • The Chinook dog was once on the brink of extinction. Today they are still extremely rare.
  • In 1965 the Chinook dog made the Guinness World Records for being the world’s rarest breed. At the time, there were only 125 known to exist.
  • Chinook is Inuit for “warm winter winds”

25. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

Chesapeake Bay Retriever standing in the woods

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a mid-size breed of dog that weighs between 55-80 pounds. The breed has distinct curly, oily fur that makes them unique from other dog breeds.

This retriever was originally created to hunt duck in (no surprise here) Chesapeake Bay. They are intelligent and sensitive, and are very protective of their family but tend to shy away from strangers.

Did You Know?

  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever does well in all types of water, including icy and frigid waters.
  • The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a very sensitive dog that is often used in therapy work.
  • They have also been used for search-and-rescue missions, drug detection, and bomb detection.

26. English Shepherd

English Shepherd resting on the grass

The English Shepherd is a mid-size breed of dog that weighs between 45-60 pounds. He has long been valued for his tracking and hunting abilities, as well as his herding and guarding instincts.

The breed is commonly described as being courageous and devoted with a strong desire to work.

Did You Know?

  • The English Shepherd is closely related to the Border Collie and the Australian Shepherd
  • 15% of English Shepherds have a MDR1 gene mutation which means they are very sensitive to most canine prescription drugs. If they have this mutation and take certain prescriptions, it can be life threatening.
  • The English Shepherd is very intelligent and easy to train. Their trainability makes them popular in obedience, tracking, fly ball, agility, and showmanship events.

27. McNab Dog

McNab Dog playing

The McNab is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 25-50 pounds. They have long been used on ranches and in rugged terrains as cattle dog.

The breed is not widely known but is beloved by anyone who does own one. They are loyal and affectionate companions who will guard their family with their life.

Did You Know?

  • McNab dogs are unique in that they are said to have “cat-like” feet.
  • The McNab dog has long been known for its ability to work in harsh terrains and conditions
  • The McNab dog is also used as a cadaver dog, evidence search dog, and archaeology dog. They have also been used in search-and-rescue missions.

28. Miniature American Shepherd

blue merle Miniature American Shepherd standing on the lawn

The Miniature American Shepherd is a mid-size breed of dog that weighs between 20-40 pounds.

They bear a strong resemblance to the Australian Shepherd but are smaller in size and stature.

They are true herding dogs in every sense of the word and are rugged, energetic, and intelligent. Owners often describe them as playful, dependable, and protective.

Did You Know?

  • The miniature American Shepherd was created in an attempt to develop a more compact Australian Shepherd that maintained its keen and dependable instincts.
  • The Miniature American Shepherd was not named the miniature “Australian Shepherd” because people did not want standards for the two breeds to be confused.
  • The Miniature American Shepherd has been featured in many horse and equestrian shows.

29. Mountain Cur

Mountain Cur puppy playing on the green grass

The Mountain Cur is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 30-60 pounds. This breed played a crucial role in history for early pioneers and settlers.

They are strong hunters and were commonly used to track wild tree game. The breed is commonly described as courageous and intelligent but slightly reserved with strangers.

Did You Know?

  • The Mountain Cur was an essential part of life for early pioneers who used them to hunt for food and fur.
  • The Mountain Cur was once such a valued dog that they were transported by wagon or by hand.
  • The Mountain Cur is part of the AKC Hound Group Designation

30. Olde English Bulldogge

Olde English Bulldogge close up photo

This medium sized, agile, athletic breed looks similar to the bulldogs of 1820, but with a friendly temperament, fewer health issues, and longer lifespan.

Did You Know?

  • The modern Olde English Bulldogge consists of 1/2 English Bulldog, 1/6 Bullmastiff, 1/6 American Pit Bull Terrier and 1/6 American Bulldog.
  • The goal of breeding this dog is to recreate a Bulldog with the looks, health and athleticism of the 18th Century Bulldog.

31. Plott Hound

Plott Hound during a dog show

The Plott Hound is a mid-size breed of dog that weighs between 40-60 pounds. Like most hounds, this breed has long been used for it’s amazing hunting abilities.

The breed was created to hunt in all types of weather and all types of terrain. Today it’s owners describe the breed as loyal, eager to please, and headstrong.

Did You Know?

  • The Plott Hound got their name from the Plott Hound family who were the original breeders of the dog.
  • Plott Hounds can come in a variety of different colors but they are all brindle.
  • Plott Hounds are commonly used in police work because they are so eager to please and easy to train.

32. Rat Terrier

rat terrier standing on the rock

The Rat Terrier is a small breed of dog that weighs between 10-25 pounds. Like many terriers, this breed was originally created for hunting down and killing rats.

They were most commonly seen on farms where it was important to keep away rats that would eat all of the crops. Today rat terriers make excellent portable companions that are described as playful and happy-go-lucky.

Did You Know?

  • In a 1996 letter to the New York Times, one resident told of a rat terrier that killed over 2 500 rats in under 7 hours.
  • A Rat Terrier was featured in the 1930’s film called “The Little Colonel” featuring Shirley Temple.
  • Filmmaker Laurie Anderson created a documentary dedicated to her Rat Terrier called “Heart of a Dog”

33. Redbone Coonhound

Redbone Coonhound close up photo

The Redbone Coonhound is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 45-70 pounds.

These tireless and tenacious hunters were commonly used for tracking and killing raccoons to provide a steady source of meat and fur for their owners.

The breed is one of the most laidback of all coonhounds and is often defined as friendly and even-tempered.

Did You Know?

  • The Redbone Coonhound derives its name from its rich, red fur.
  • The Redbone Coonhound is a pack dog that when with others of its kind can hunt down bear, cougar, and other large game.
  • The Redbone Coonhound doesn’t do well with cats or other small animals. It’s natural hunting instincts make them think smaller animals are prey.

34. Silken Windhound

Silken Windhound in the fields

The Silken Windhound is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 20-40 pounds.

The breed is a type of sighthound that uses its sense of sight and speed for success when on the hunt.

The breed is elegant and athletic with a long, silky coat of fur that makes the breed stand out among others.

Did You Know?

  • The Silken Windhound is a newer breed of dog with origins dating back only to 1985.
  • The Silken Windhound is a mixture of Whippet and the Borzoi
  • Most Silken Windhounds have a life expectancy of around 15 years. The oldest one lived to be 20.

35. Stephens Cur

Stephens Cur old photo

The Stephens Cur is a mid-sized breed of dog that weighs between 30-55 pounds. This is a breed of scenthound that was originally bred for hunting squirrels and racoons.

Today the breed is said to make an excellent family companion. They are loving and loyal but should be monitored around smaller household animals.

Did You Know?

  • The Stephens Cur can hunt down larger game like cougar and mountain lion.
  • The Stephens Cur is nicknamed “Darkie” referring to their dark coat color
  • In WWII the Stephens Cur almost went extinct. Shortly thereafter a breeding program was started to repopulate the breed.

36. Teddy Roosevelt Terrier

Teddy Roosevelt Terrier standing in the backyard

The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a small breed of dog that weighs between 8-25 pounds. They have long been used to keep homes and farms free of rats and mice.

Today they are also commonly found in agility, obedience, and other types of dog sports. They are described as being playful, intelligent, and having a “heart of gold”.

Did You Know?

  • The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is extremely adaptable and can live in almost any type of environment.
  • President Roosevelt owned one of these terriers. Many believe that he also played a role in the development of the breed though this has not been substantiated.
  • The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier has its own series of children books written by Helen Powell White featuring “Percy” the Roosevelt Terrier.

37. Toy Fox Terrier

3 Toy Fox Terrier dogs standing on a wooden chair

The Toy Fox Terrier is a very small breed of dog that only weighs between 3.5-7 pounds. The breed began as barnyard ratters but soon found themselves in the circus business.

They are often described as being a true terrier and a true toy breed. They have the tenacity of a terrier but the snuggability of a toy lap dog.

Did You Know?

  • The Toy Fox Terrier is very charismatic and is often defined by their owners as a little comedian.
  • Toy Fox Terriers are often found competing in competitive agility events
  • The Toy Fox Terrier was created from many different breeds including the miniature Pinscher, the Italian Greyhound, and the Chihuahua.

38. Toy Manchester Terrier

Toy Manchester Terrier standing on the ground

The Toy Manchester Terrier is a small breed of dog that weighs up to 12 pounds. The breed has long been used for ratting and coursing.

They are both graceful and fearless, and are often described by owners as athletic, intelligent, and spirited.

Did You Know?

  • The Manchester Toy Terrier is named after the city in which it originated.
  • The Manchester Terrier is a cross between a Black and Tan Terrier and a Whippet. The Toy version was created to better suit Victorian women.
  • The main difference between the standard Manchester Terrier and the toy breed (aside from size) is the ear shape.

39. Treeing Cur

Treeing Cur resting under the tree

The Treeing Cur is a mid-sized breed of dog weighing between 30-60 pounds.

They were originally developed for hunting and farming purposes, and were commonly used to herd sheep and guard the homestead.

They are defined as athletic, alert, and intelligent but also very strong-willed.

Did You Know?

  • Cur breeds have been mentioned in history as far back as the 1700’s
  • The Treeing Cur was officially recognized by the UKC in 1998.
  • The term “you’re barking up the wrong tree” may have been derived from treeing curs who sometimes incessantly barked up a tree where there was no game.

40. Treeing Tennessee Brindle

Treeing Tennessee Brindle Dog, photographed at the cottage

The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is a mid-size breed of dog that weighs between 30-50 pounds. As the name suggests they have long been used to hunt game up trees.

The breed is fast and agile, and has a great sniffer. They make friendly, intelligent, and loyal companions in the home.

Did You Know?

  • The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is known to “bay” when hunting. This means that they call out loudly to their owner to alert them of prey.
  • The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is a newer breed that didn’t originate until the 1960’s.
  • The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is a very healthy breed with few major health concerns.

41. Treeing Walker Coonhound

Treeing Walker Coonhound standing in the green fields

The Treeing Walker Coonhound is a mid-size breed of dog weighing between 50-70 pounds. They are swift and powerful – perfect for hunting racoons up trees.

Today, the breed is a great family companion and is often described as energetic, loving, and courageous but can be difficult to train.

Did You Know?

  • The Treeing Walker Coonhound is nicknamed “The People’s Choice”
  • The Treeing Walker Coonhound is known for being very vocal. This is due to their natural instinct to howl when they find prey.
  • If a Treeing Walker Coonhound catches a new scent, they will quickly ditch an old one to chase down the new one.

42. Trigg Hound

Trigg Hound close up photo

The Trigg Hound is a mid-size breed of dog weighing between 35-45 pounds. The breed was originally developed in Kentucky to hunt the red fox.

The breed is often described as hardworking, determined, playful, and energetic. They make excellent family dogs but require a family that can provide them with a great deal of daily exercise and attention.

Did You Know?

  • Breeders fancy bicolored and tricolored Trigg Hounds.
  • Trigg Hounds were originally developed in the 1800’s.
  • The Trigg Hound is a very active breed that requires a lot of exercise and attention. They are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.

43. White Shepherd

White Shepherd dog at the park

The White Shepherd is a large breed of dog that weighs between 77-88 pounds. The breed was originally derived from the purebred German Shepherd.

When first developed there was a lot of debate as to whether the white coat of the German Shepherd was a fault or something to be prized. Today, people either love the idea of the white coated Shepherd or hate it.

Did You Know?

  • Aside from coat color, there isn’t much difference between the White Shepherd and the German Shepherd.
  • The White Shepherd is not currently recognized by the AKC but was recognized by the UKC in 1999 as a distinct breed.
  • The White Shepherd is derived from German Shepherds that have a recessive gene.

And there you have it – a complete list of the 43 dog breeds that have origins in the United States.

Most of these breeds were originally developed with a job in mind but have ended up stealing the hearts of Americans and the laps and beds of their owners.

About the author: Driven by his lifelong passion for dogs and an insatiable curiosity about their diverse breeds, Pablo Pascua founded dogbreedsfaq.com. Through this website, he seeks to expand his knowledge and share his findings with fellow dog enthusiasts. Having owned several dogs throughout his life, Pablo’s experiences have fueled his interest in learning more about these beloved animals. His mission is to provide accurate and comprehensive information to help pet owners make informed decisions about their furry companion.