Welcome to our index of dog breeds that start with “C” from our complete list of over 340 different dog breeds. Within this list, you’ll find a wide variety of canines from all over the world. Most are recognized by one or more kennel clubs-but there may be some surprises thrown in! From the playful Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to the intelligent Collie, we’ve got some amazing dogs for you to check out. Each dog has their picture and a summary of essential breed information. Whether you’re a seasoned dog enthusiast, thinking about getting a new pup, or just curious about dog breeds beginning with “C” take your time and scroll through this complete list of the “C” dog breeds!
Complete List of Dog Breeds that Start with C (with Pictures)
CAIRN TERRIER
Read our Cairn Terrier facts here.
- female height | 9.4 to 12.5 inches
- male height | 10 to 13 inches
- female weight | 13 to 17 pounds
- male weight | 14 to 18 pounds
- life span | 12 to 15 years
- litter size | 4 to 10
- shedding | light
- origin | Scotland
CANAAN DOG
The Canaan Dog is an ancient breed of dog originally bred for herding and guarding livestock in the deserts of Israel. They are intelligent, independent, and loyal dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They are also known for their unique appearance, with a short, smooth coat, upright ears, and a muscular, athletic build. Their coat colors can be red, white , black or spotted with or without a mask. Despite their history, Canaan Dogs are still relatively unknown outside of Israel and are a rare breed globally.
- female height | 19 to 24 inches
- male height | 20 to 25 inches
- female weight | 34.9 to 45.1 pounds
- male weight | 44.9 to 55.1 pounds
- life span | 12 to 16 years
- litter size | 4 to 6
- shedding | moderate
- origin | Israel
CANADIAN ESKIMO DOG
The Canadian Eskimo Dog, also known as the Inuit Sled Dog, is a rare and ancient breed of sled dog that has played a crucial role in the survival of the Inuit people for thousands of years. They are hardy and adaptable dogs, able to endure the harsh conditions of the Arctic tundra, and have been used for transportation, hunting, and guarding. With their strong work ethic, loyalty, and intelligence, Canadian Eskimo Dogs make excellent sled dogs and are still used for sledding and dog sledding races in the North. However, due to the introduction of snowmobiles and other modern technologies, the breed has seen a decline in numbers, and they are now considered one of the rarest dog breeds in the world. Despite their decline, the Canadian Eskimo Dog remains an important part of Canadian and Inuit cultural heritage and a symbol of their way of life.
- female height | 19.5 to 23.5 inches
- male height | 23 to 27.5 inches
- female weight | 39.9 to 66.1 pounds
- male weight | 65.9 to 88.1 pounds
- life span | 12 to 14 years
- shedding | moderate to heavy
- litter | 3 to 8
- origin | Canada
CANARIAN WARREN HOUND aka PODENCO CANARIO
The Canarian Warren Hound is an ancient breed of dog that originated in the Canary Islands, Spain. This breed was used by the indigenous people of the Canary Islands for hunting rabbit, a crucial source of food. With their excellent scenting ability and high endurance, Canarian Warren Hounds were essential for survival on the rugged terrain of the islands. They are also known for their strong prey drive, loyalty, and trainability. Despite their rich history, Canarian Warren Hounds are not well-known outside of the Canary Islands, and are considered a rare breed globally. They make great pets for experienced dog owners who are looking for an active and intelligent companion with a strong hunting instinct.
- female height | 21 to 23.5 inches
- male height | 21.5 to 25 inches
- female weight | 54.9 to 55.1 pounds
- male weight | 54.9 to 55.1 pounds
- life span | 11 to 13 years
- shedding | moderate
- litter | 6 to 12
- origin | Spain – Canary Islands
CANE CORSO ITALIANO aka ITALIAN MASTIFF
Read our Cane Corso facts here.
- female height | 23 to 25 inches
- male height | 24 to 27 inches
- female weight | 87.9 to 99.1 pounds
- male weight | 98.9 to 110 pounds
- life span | 10 to 11 years
- litter size | 4 to 6
- origin | Italy
- shedding | moderate
CARPATHIAN SHEPHERD DOG aka CARPATHIAN SHEPHERD
The Carpathian Shepherd Dog, also known as the Carpatin or the Romanian Shepherd Dog, is an ancient breed of dog originating in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania. They were bred for herding and guarding livestock, and are known for their powerful build, agility, and bravery. Carpathian Shepherd Dogs are highly intelligent, independent, and protective, making them excellent guard dogs. Despite their history and impressive abilities, they are not well-known outside of Romania and are considered a rare breed globally. With proper training and socialization, Carpathian Shepherd Dogs can make great pets for experienced dog owners who are looking for a strong, protective companion. However, due to their protective nature and high energy, they may not be suitable for first-time dog owners or those with young children.
- female height | 23 to 26.5 inches
- male height | 25.5 to 29 inches
- female weight | 69.9 to 100 pounds
- male weight | 69.9 to 100 pounds
- life span | 12 to 14 years
- litter | 5 to 10
- shedding | moderate to heavy
- origin | Romania
CASTRO LABOREIRO DOG
Image Credit: Schiowa
The Castro Laboreiro Dog is an ancient breed of dog originating from the Castro Laboreiro region in Portugal. This breed was originally used for herding and guarding livestock, and is known for its strength, courage, and independence. Castro Laboreiro Dogs have a distinctive appearance, with a thick, shaggy coat, strong jaw, and piercing eyes. Their most distinctive color is called “mountain wolf” and is a combination of different shades of gray with a black overlay or brindling. They are also highly intelligent, energetic, and protective, making them excellent guard dogs. Despite their impressive abilities and rich history, Castro Laboreiro Dogs are still relatively unknown outside of Portugal and are considered a rare breed globally.
- female height |20 to 22 inches
- male height | 20 to 24 inches
- female weight | 45 to 70 pounds
- male weight | 50 to 75 pounds
- life span | 11 to 12 years
- litter | 5 to 10
- shedding | moderate
- origin | Portugal
CATAHOULA LEOPARD DOG
Read our Catahoula Leopard Dog facts here.
- female height | 20 to 26 inches
- male height | 20 to 26 inches
- female weight | 49.9 to 110 pounds
- male weight | 49.9 to 110 pounds
- life span | 11 to 13 years
- litter size | 8 to 12
- shedding | moderate
- origin | United States
CATALAN SHEEPDOG
The Catalan Sheepdog, also known as the Gos d’Atura Català, is a breed of dog originating from Catalonia, Spain. This breed was originally used for herding and guarding livestock, and is known for its agility, intelligence, and strong work ethic. Catalan Sheepdogs have a unique appearance, with a shaggy, long coat, and an athletic build. The base colors of their coat are fawn, sable or grey but they are mixed with hair of many different shades, giving them a unique look. They are highly trainable, loyal, and protective, making them excellent herding and guard dogs. Despite their rich history and impressive abilities, Catalan Sheepdogs are still relatively unknown outside of Spain and are considered a rare breed globally.
- female height | 17.5 to 20.5 inches
- male height | 18.5 to 21.5 inches
- female weight | 44.9 to 60.1 pounds
- male weight | 44.9 to 60.1 pounds
- life span | 12 to 14 years
- litter size | 3 to 6
- shedding | moderate to heavy
- origin | Spain
CAUCASIAN OVCHARKA aka CAUCASIAN SHEPHERD
The Caucasian Ovcharka, also known as the Caucasian Shepherd, is a giant sized dog breed that originates from the Caucasus Mountains in Russia. Its history dates back centuries, where it was primarily used as a livestock guardian and protector of families. The breed is known for its strength, courage, and loyalty, making it highly valued by those who live and work in the harsh, rugged terrain of its native region. The Caucasian Ovcharka has a thick, dense coat that comes in any solid color, spotted or piebald except solid black, diluted black, blue or liver. Despite its impressive size and powerful build, the breed is known for its gentle and protective nature, making it a trustworthy and loyal companion. Although the Caucasian Ovcharka is still highly valued and used as a livestock guardian and protector in its native region, it is considered to be a rare breed outside of Russia. Due to its large size, strength, and courage, the Caucasian Ovcharka is best suited for experienced dog owners who can provide adequate exercise and training.
- female height | 25 to 28 inches
- male height | 25 to 28 inches
- female weight | 98.9 to 154 pounds
- male weight | 98.9 to 154 pounds
- life span | 10 to 11 years
- litter size | 5 to 12
- shedding | moderate to heavy
- origin | Russia