Every country has their own list of favorite dog breeds. Some are specific to one breed, while others encompass several breeds. The United States boasts a wide variety of breeds that have become famous within the country and throughout the world. From big to small, these dogs all have notable characteristics that make them stand out from other popular dog breed.
1) Alaskan Malamute
A sled dog and the state dog of Alaska, this breed is strong and loyal. Its beautiful thick coat can be a variety of colors: wolf gray, red, black or white with some brown mixed in. Originally bred as a working dog for pulling heavy loads across long distances, Alaskan Malamutes are still known to be very active and need a lot of exercise.
2) Boston Terrier
This dog breed got its name from the city in which it was bred. It is small, around 25 pounds at its heaviest, and has a short coat that comes in brindle, seal, or black with white markings .While this breed is difficult to keep calm and collected, Boston Terriers’ size makes them excellent for living in small spaces like apartments.
3) Chesapeake Bay Retriever
This breed is an American favorite because of its beautiful wavy coat which comes in shades of brown, sedge or deadgrass, They sometimes go by the nickname “Chessie”. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever was bred for hunting waterfowl in harsh conditions and are know to be very intelligent, trainable dogs.
4) Black and Tan Coonhound
This breed has a strong nose that it uses for hunting, which is why it tracks well. It is also an excellent swimmer and is well suited for harsh conditions and difficult hunting terrain. The Black and Tan Coonhound can weigh up to 110 pounds, loves to bark at strangers or strange sounds, and can live up to 12 years.
5) American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is dog that needs lots of attention from its owner-they need a job. They can be independent and a bit stubborn. They come in solid colors of either liver, brown or dark chocolate. This dog was bred as a hunting dog and would often retrieve game from a small boat or canoe.
6) Chinook
The Chinook is a rare breed of dog that was bred sled dog racing and hauling. The breed originated in Wonalancet, New Hampshire. The Chinook has a thick undercoat and longer top coat which can range from cream color to reddish-brown. This dog breed loves to run and is one of the few breeds that can pull sleds almost as well as the Alaskan Malamute.
7) Alaskan Klee Kai
The Alaskan Klee Kai is a smaller version of the Husky. It has a compact body and requires daily exercise. The breed has a striking appearance and comes in shades of black, gray or red. This dog is always alert and extremely smart, but can be difficult to train. There are three sizes of Alaskan Klee Kai: toy, miniature and standard.
8) Boykin Spaniel
The Boykin Spaniel is a small breed that came from hunters who wanted a dog that would hunt in the swamps of South Carolina. It is a cross between the English Pointer, spaniel and setter. The Boykin Spaniel has a medium length coat that is either curly or flat, and has a gentle temperament and comes with a solid liver colored coat.
9) Catahoula Leopard Dog
The Catahoula Leopard Dog is part of the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service Program. It was named after Catahoula Parish, Louisiana. They are the only dog breed originating in the state of Louisiana. This breed has short coat with spots similar to that of a leopard, but also comes in other colors. The Catahoula Leopard Dog known to be very friendly and intelligent, but needs an experienced owner because they tend to be independent and territorial.
10) American Staffordshire Terrier
The American Staffordshire Terrier is a strong and athletic dog that needs lots of exercise. It was originally bred to hunt and for guarding purposes, but is now mostly kept as a companion dog. Up until 1972 they were known by a few different names such as Yankee Terrier and American Bull Terrier.
