Discovering Different Dog Breeds That Start with D

20 Dog Breeds That Begin with the Letter D

Dog lovers, are you fascinated by the incredible variety of canine companions? From tiny lapdogs to massive guardians, the world of dogs is full of surprises.

If you’re curious about the unique breeds that start with the letter “D,” you’re in for a treat!

In this blog post, we’ll introduce you to 20 captivating dog breeds showcasing our furry friends’ diversity and charm.

From the iconic Dalmatian to the lesser-known Drentsche Patrijshond, you’ll discover a range of temperaments, sizes, and histories that will leave you in awe.

Get ready to expand your knowledge and fall in love with these delightful “D” breeds as we explore their origins, characteristics, and what makes each of them so special.

Dog Breeds with ‘D’

1. Dachshund

Dachshund

Origin and History

The Dachshund, often affectionately called the “wiener dog,” originated in Germany.

Bred to hunt badgers and other burrowing animals, its long, low body and short legs allowed it to navigate through narrow underground tunnels easily.

Over time, it was also used for hunting rabbits and foxes and eventually became a popular companion dog.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 5-9 inches (standard), 5-6 inches (miniature)
Weight 16-32 pounds (standard), under 11 pounds (miniature)
Coat Smooth, Wirehaired, or Longhaired
Color Variety (e.g., black, red, chocolate, tan, cream)
Notable Physical Features Long body, short legs, prominent snout

Temperament and Behavior

Dachshunds are known for their lively, playful, and curious nature.

They are loyal to their families but can sometimes be stubborn, requiring patience and consistent training.

Due to their hunting background, they may have a high prey drive and enjoy digging.

Dachshunds generally get along well with children and other pets when socialized properly.

2. Dalmatian

Dalmatian

Origin and History

The Dalmatian’s exact origins are uncertain, but the breed is believed to have originated in the historical region of Dalmatia, in present-day Croatia.

They were used as coach dogs, running alongside horse-drawn carriages to protect the horses and guard the coach’s contents.

Later, they became associated with firehouses, where they served as firehouse dogs and mascots.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 19-24 inches
Weight 45-70 pounds
Coat Short, dense, and fine
Color White with black or liver spots
Notable Physical Features Spotted coat, muscular build

Temperament and Behavior

Dalmatians are friendly, energetic, and intelligent dogs.

They are loyal to their families and good with children when well-socialized.

As a high-energy breed, they require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent destructive behaviors.

Dalmatians are also known for their strong guarding instincts and may be reserved around strangers.

3. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Origin and History

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier originated in the border regions of Scotland and England in the 1700s.

Named after a character in Sir Walter Scott’s novel “Guy Mannering,” these small terriers were bred to hunt otters, badgers, and other small game in the rough terrain of the Scottish borders.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 8-11 inches
Weight 18-24 pounds
Coat Crisp texture, a combination of hard and soft hair
Color Pepper (light silver to dark blue-black) or mustard (reddish-brown to pale fawn)
Notable Physical Features Distinctive ‘top-knot’ of hair on the head, large eyes

Temperament and Behavior

Dandie Dinmont Terriers are independent, intelligent, and affectionate dogs. They are loyal to their families but may be reserved with strangers.

As terriers, they have a strong prey drive and enjoy digging and exploring.

When socialized properly, they are generally good with children and other dogs but may chase smaller pets due to their hunting instincts.

4. Danish-Swedish Farmdog

Danish-Swedish Farmdog

Origin and History

The Danish-Swedish Farmdog, as the name suggests, originated in Denmark and Sweden as a versatile farm dog.

These small, agile dogs were used for various tasks, such as catching rats, herding livestock, and serving as farm watchdogs.

Physical Characteristics 

Characteristic Description
Height 12-14.5 inches
Weight 15-20 pounds
Coat Short and smooth
Color White with black or brown markings
Notable Physical Features Compact body, alert expression, pricked ears

Temperament and Behavior

Danish-Swedish farmdogs are friendly and adaptable dogs.

They are intelligent and eager to please, making them easy to train.

When socialized properly, they get along well with children and other pets.

As a working breed, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

5. Denmark Feist

Denmark Feist

Origin and History

The Denmark Feist originated in the United States, specifically in the state of Virginia, in the early 20th century.

These small hunting dogs were bred to hunt small game, such as squirrels and rabbits, in the dense forests of the Appalachian Mountains.

Physical Characteristics 

Characteristic Description
Height 10-18 inches
Weight 15-30 pounds
Coat Short and smooth
Color Tricolor (white, black, and tan) or bicolor with white as a primary color
Notable Physical Features Lean and muscular build, the tail may be docked

Temperament and Behavior

Denmark Feists are loyal dogs. They have a strong prey drive and love to chase and hunt small game.

They are affectionate with their families but may be reserved with strangers.

As a hunting breed, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

6. Dingo

Dingo

Origin and History

The Dingo is a wild dog native to Australia, believed to have arrived on the continent around 3,500-4,000 years ago with human settlers from Southeast Asia.

They quickly adapted to the Australian environment and played a significant role in Aboriginal culture.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 19-23 inches
Weight 29-44 pounds
Coat Short, dense
Color Ginger or reddish can also be sandy, black and tan, or white
Notable Physical Features Naturally lean, athletic build, large ears

Temperament and Behavior

Dingoes are intelligent, independent, and highly adaptable. In the wild, they live in packs with a strict social hierarchy.

They are generally shy and cautious around humans but can be curious and opportunistic when seeking food.

As wild animals, they have strong hunting instincts.

7. Doberman Pinscher

Doberman Pinscher

Origin and History

The Doberman Pinscher originated in Germany in the late 19th century, developed by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann, a tax collector who sought to create a protective companion.

The breed has been refined over the years, incorporating various breeds, such as the German Pinscher, Rottweiler, and Greyhound.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 24-28 inches
Weight 60-100 pounds
Coat Short, smooth, and hard
Color Black, red, blue, or fawn with rust markings
Notable Physical Features Energetic, muscular build, cropped ears (traditionally), docked tail

Temperament and Behavior

Doberman Pinschers are intelligent, loyal, and fearless.

They are known for their protective nature and make excellent guard dogs.

They can be gentle and affectionate with their families with proper training and socialization. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

8. Dogo Argentino

Dogo Argentino

Origin and History

The Dogo Argentino, also known as the Argentine Mastiff, was developed in Argentina in the 1920s by Dr. Antonio Nores Martínez.

The breed was created by crossing various breeds, including the Cordoba Fighting Dog, Great Dane, and Spanish Mastiff, to produce a strong, courageous hunting dog.

Physical Characteristics 

Characteristic Description
Height 24-27 inches (males), 23-26 inches (females)
Weight 88-100 pounds
Coat Short, smooth
Color White
Notable Physical Features Powerful, muscular body, distinctive white coat

Temperament and Behavior

Dogo Argentinos are loyal, courageous, and assertive dogs.

They have a strong prey drive and excel in hunting big game. They are protective of their families but can be reserved with strangers.

Proper training and socialization are essential to ensure they develop into well-rounded, obedient companions.

9. Dogo Guatemalteco

Dogo Guatemalteco

Origin and History

The Dogo Guatemalteco, also known as the Guatemalan Bulldog, originated in Guatemala as a descendant of the extinct Old English Bulldog.

The breed was developed for guarding and protecting farms and dog fighting, which is now illegal in many countries.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 20-26 inches
Weight 40-75 pounds
Coat Short, smooth
Color Brindle, fawn, or black with or without white markings
Notable Physical Features Muscular build, square head, alert expression

Temperament and Behavior

Dogo Guatemaltecos are confident, brave, and loyal dogs.

They have a strong protective instinct and can be wary of strangers. Early socialization and consistent training are crucial to ensure they develop into well-behaved companions.

They require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

10. Dogo Sardesco

Dogo Sardesco

Origin and History

The Dogo Sardesco, also known as the Sardinian Mastiff, is a rare breed from the Italian island of Sardinia.

The breed was developed for hunting wild boar and guarding livestock and property.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 21-26 inches
Weight 66-100 pounds
Coat Short to medium, dense
Color Black, grey, fawn, brindle
Notable Physical Features Robust and agile with a strong jaw

Temperament and Behavior

Dogo Sardescos are loyal, brave, and independent dogs.

They have a strong prey drive and require consistent training and socialization to ensure they are well-behaved around other animals and people.

They are protective of their families and can be reserved with strangers.

11. Dogue Brasileiro

Dogue Brasileiro

Origin and History

The Dogue Brasileiro, also known as the Brazilian Mastiff, is a rare breed that was developed in Brazil.

The breed’s exact origins are unclear, but it is believed to have descended from English Mastiffs and Bulldogs brought to Brazil by European settlers.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 20-23 inches
Weight 40-90 pounds
Coat Short, smooth
Color White with patches of any color except solid black
Notable Physical Features Strong and muscular, broad chest

Temperament and Behavior

Dogue Brasileiros are loyal, courageous, and confident dogs.

They have a strong protective instinct and require early socialization and consistent training to ensure they are well-behaved around people and other animals.

They are affectionate with their families but can be wary of strangers.

12. Dogue de Bordeaux

Dogue de Bordeaux

Origin and History

The Dogue de Bordeaux originated in France, also known as the French Mastiff or Bordeaux Mastiff.

The breed was developed for guarding, hunting, and fighting and has a history dating back to the 14th century.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 23-27 inches
Weight 99-110 pounds
Coat Fine, short, soft to the touch
Color Fawn, with a red or mahogany mask
Notable Physical Features Massive head, stocky and muscular

Temperament and Behavior

Dogue de Bordeaux are loyal, courageous, and affectionate dogs.

They have a strong protective instinct and require early socialization and consistent training to ensure they are well-behaved around people and other animals.

They are gentle with their families but can be wary of strangers.

13. Drentse Patrijshond

Drentse Patrijshond

Origin and History

The Drentse Patrijshond, also known as the Dutch Partridge Dog, originated in the Dutch province of Drenthe.

The breed was developed in the 16th century for hunting partridges and other small game birds.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 21-25 inches
Weight 40-60 pounds
Coat Long, dense, and wavy
Color White with brown or orange markings
Notable Physical Features Feathered tail, expressive eyes

Temperament and Behavior

Drentse Patrijshonds are gentle, friendly, and intelligent dogs.

They have a strong hunting instinct and excel in the field. They are affectionate with their families and generally good with children and other dogs.

They require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

14. Drever

Drever

Origin and History

The Drever is a Swedish scenthound developed in the early 20th century by crossing several breeds, including the German and Westphalian Dachsbracke.

The breed was created for hunting hares and foxes in the dense forests of Sweden.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 11-16 inches
Weight 32-35 pounds
Coat Short, dense
Color Black, fawn, or red with white markings and sometimes with tan points
Notable Physical Features Long body, short legs, prominent sternum

Temperament and Behavior

Drevers are friendly, energetic, and determined dogs.

They have a strong hunting instinct and are skilled at tracking scent. They are affectionate with their families and generally good with children and other dogs.

They require daily exercise and enjoy spending time outdoors.

15. Dunker

Dunker

Origin and History

The Dunker, also known as the Norwegian Hound, is a scenthound originating from Norway.

The breed was developed in the 19th century by crossing various hounds, including the Russian Harlequin Hound and the Finnish Hound, to create a skilled hunting dog for Norwegian terrain.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 19-21 inches
Weight 35-44 pounds
Coat Straight, hard, and dense
Color Blue or black marbled with pale fawn and white markings
Notable Physical Features Well-proportioned body, harmonious and balanced appearance

Temperament and Behavior

Dunkers are independent dogs. They have a strong hunting instinct and excel at tracking scent.

They are affectionate with their families but may be reserved with strangers.

16. Dutch Shepherd

Dutch Shepherd

Origin and History

The Dutch Shepherd originated as a versatile herding and guard dog in the Netherlands.

The breed was developed in the late 19th century by shepherds who needed a reliable, intelligent, and hardy dog to help manage their flocks.

Characteristic Description
Height 22-25 inches (males), 21-24 inches (females)
Weight 50-70 pounds
Coat Short, long, or rough
Color Brindle
Notable Physical Features Athletic build, intelligent expression, adaptable to various tasks

Temperament and Behavior

Dutch Shepherds are loyal, intelligent, and protective dogs.

They have a strong work ethic and require regular exercise and mental stimulation.

Early socialization and consistent training are essential for this breed.

17. Dutch Smoushond

Dutch Smoushond

Origin and History

The Dutch Smoushond, also known as the Dutch Ratter, is a small breed from the Netherlands.

The breed was developed in the 19th century to catch rats and other vermin on farms and in stables.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 14-17 inches
Weight 20-22 pounds
Coat Rough, wiry
Color Yellow or straw color
Notable Physical Features Shaggy appearance, friendly expression, small but sturdy

Temperament and Behavior

Dutch Smoushonds are lively, affectionate, and alert dogs. They have a strong prey drive and are skilled at catching small animals.

They are loyal to their families and generally good with kids and other dogs.

18. Danish Broholmer

Danish Broholmer

Origin and History

The Danish Broholmer, also known as the Broholmer or Danish Mastiff, is a large breed from Denmark.

It was developed in the 18th century as a guard dog for large estates and manors.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height Not standard (Mix breed)
Weight Not standard (Mix breed)
Coat Short to medium, dense
Color White with black or liver spots and blue or red speckling
Notable Physical Features Spotted and speckled coat, athletic build, bright and alert expression

Temperament and Behavior

Danish Broholmers are calm, friendly, and protective dogs.

They have a strong guarding instinct and require early socialization and consistent training to ensure they are well-behaved around people and other animals.

They are affectionate with their families but may be reserved with strangers.

19. Doxie-Chin

Doxie-Chin

Origin and History

The Doxie-Chin is a relatively new hybrid breed, created by crossing a Dachshund with a Japanese Chin.

The breed was developed in the United States to combine the best traits of both parent breeds.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height 27-30 inches (males), 25-28 inches (females)
Weight 90-150 pounds
Coat Short and smooth
Color Fawn or black with a white chest, toes, and tip of the tail
Notable Physical Features Large and powerful, calm and friendly demeanor, imposing stature

Temperament and Behavior

Doxie-Chins are friendly, playful, and affectionate dogs.

They inherit the lively and curious nature of the Dachshund and the gentle and loving personality of the Japanese Chin.

20. Dalmatian Heeler

Dalmatian Heeler

Origin and History

The Dalmatian Heeler is a hybrid breed created by crossing a Dalmatian with an Australian Cattle Dog (also known as a Blue Heeler).

The breed was developed in the United States to combine the best traits of both parent breeds.

Physical Characteristics

Characteristic Description
Height Not standard (Mix breed)
Weight Not standard (Mix breed)
Coat It can vary, often medium and silky
Color It can vary and often includes black, brown, white, and tan
Notable Physical Features
  • A mix of Dachshund and Japanese Chin is a unique combination of features from both breeds.

Temperament and Behavior 

Dalmatian Heelers are energetic and protective dogs.

They inherit the loyal and protective nature of the Dalmatian and the hardworking and independent personality of the Australian Cattle Dog. 

Conclusion

Ultimately, the world of dog breeds, beginning with the letter “D,” is filled with fascinating variety and charm.

From the loyal and protective Dutch Shepherd to the lively and affectionate Doxie-Chin, these breeds showcase various characteristics, origins, and roles.

Whether you’re seeking a devoted working partner, a gentle companion, or a playful family pet, a “D” breed can meet your needs. 

By understanding their histories, temperaments, and modern-day roles, you can find the perfect match for your lifestyle and provide them with the love, care, and attention they deserve.

So, which “D” breed has stolen your heart?

Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

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