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16 Five-Letter Dog Breeds: A Complete Overview (With Pictures)

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By Nicole Cosgrove

akita inu

There are 340 dog breeds recognized by the FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), with the American Kennel Society acknowledging 167 of those breeds. Out of those hundreds of dog breeds, how many five-letter dog breeds can you name?

If you’re stumped on your crossword puzzle or simply have an inquisitive mind to learn more about dog breeds, you’re sure to find your answer on our extensive list.

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The 16 Five-Letter Dog Breeds

1. Alano (Español)

Alano Espanol (Spanish Bulldog)
Image Credit: PxHere

Sometimes called the Spanish Bulldog, these dogs originate from Spain, where they were once used during bullfights. These reliable, affectionate, serious dogs do well at herding cattle, hunting, and guarding.


2. Akita

Akita dog
Image Credit: uadrienn, Pixabay

Originating from Japan, this large breed of dog is known as either the Akita Inu or the American Akita. Interestingly, the first Akita was brought to America by Helen Keller. This active and energetic dog is loyal and loving and a fierce guard dog. Their thick double coats require frequent brushing.


3. Billy

Billy Dog
Image Credit: jackmac34, pixabay

This rare breed, also known as the Chien de France-Comte, is part of a line of scent hounds that were popular in 19th-century France. This large, light-colored dog is elegant in appearance. Although stubborn due to their high level of intelligence, Billys are well-tempered for families and excellent hunting and tracking dogs.


4. Boxer

boxer dog lying on carpeted floor at home
Image Credit: Pixel-Shot, Shutterstock

This short-haired breed has a square snout and a medium to large muscular build. Their smooth, short coat makes them easy to groom, and their loyal, intelligent, energetic temperament means that they are wonderful family dogs.


5. Cesky (Terrier)

Cesky Terrier standing on a pathway
Image Credit: ceskyfreund36, Pixabay

This small terrier-type dog originated in Czechoslovakia. You may not have heard of a Cesky because they’re one of the six rarest dog breeds in the world. These dogs are clever, playful, and eager to join you on a walk.


6. Corgi

corgi
Image Credit: Elena Rogulina, Pixabay

Made famous by being the favorite of Queen Elizabeth II of England, the humble Corgi makes a wonderful house companion. Better known as the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, this small breed of dog has short legs, bright eyes, and a lively personality.


7. Cairn (Terrier)

7Cairn Terrier
Image Credit: hazelw90, Pixabay

Originating in the Scottish Highlands, the Cairn Terrier is known as a working dog who has historically helped farmers rid their land of vermin. This small terrier is fearless, active, and assertive. You may know this breed by its famous role as Toto in the original “Wizard of Oz” movie.


8. Dhole

Dhole dog
Dhole (Asiatic Wild Dog) (Image Credit: Davidvraju, Wikimedia Commons, CC 4.0 International)

Considered an Asiatic wild dog, the Dhole looks like a hybrid between a fox and a German Shepherd. It is a skilled jumper, better left to roam free outside than in your home.


9. Husky

siberian husky happily lying on grass
Image Credit: Maria Ortega, Pixabay

Better known as a Siberian Husky, this large-size dog breed is best known for pulling dog sleds across the Alaskan wilderness. Huskies are well suited for their cold-weather, highly active lifestyles due to their thick coats, amazing endurance, and ability to work well in packs.


10. Irish (Terrier)

Irish Terrier eating
Image Credit: congerdesign, Pixabay

The Irish Terrier dog breed has a fiery red coat that sets it apart from other terriers. This long-legged terrier has a bold temperament that’s spirited and clever. This breed has its roots in rural Ireland as a farm dog.


11. (Korean) Jindo

Korean Jindo
Image Credit: pdjch66, Pixabay

The Korean Jindo is a medium-sized dog, an avid hunter, and a loyal companion. These dogs are light eaters.


12. Kerry (Blue Terrier)

Kerry Blue Terrier in a spring garden
Image Credit: Radomir Rezny, Shutterstock

Named aptly for its blue coat, the Kerry Blue Terrier is one of the largest terriers in existence. This dog breed has an unusually hued coat that is extraordinarily soft as well. Named for its origins in Kerry, Ireland, this dog makes an alert family companion.


13. McNab (Shepherd or Collie)

Originating in the Mendocino region of Northern California, the McNab was bred to be a herding dog with the capability to adapt to the challenging terrain. The McNab is a warm and even-tempered medium-sized dog.


14. Plott (Hound)

Plott Hound
Image Credit: WatersPix, Shutterstock

The Plott Hound is the state dog of North Carolina. These dogs make fantastic hunters, as well as mellow, loving companions.


15. Silky (Terrier)

Australian Silky Terrier
Image Credit: strangewriter42, Pixabay

Also known as the Australian Silky Terrier, this dog can sometimes be confused with the Yorkshire Terrier, as both breeds boast long, fine hair coats. They are known for being energetic, keen, and alert.


16. Spitz

Image By: furry_portraits, Pixabay

This five-letter moniker describes many dog breeds that have similar characteristics: a heavy double coat, pointy ears, almond-shaped eyes, and a general wolf-like appearance.

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Final Thoughts

We hope you enjoyed this collection of 16 dog breeds, all with five-letter names. Write a doggy haiku, finally finish that crossword, or wow your friends and neighbors!

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Featured Image Credit: Anaite, Shutterstock

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