Dog Breeds Starting With P
Welcome dog lovers! Are you thinking about getting a new furry friend but not sure which breed to choose? We’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we will explore various dog breeds that start with the letter P.
Whether you’re looking for a petite pooch or a powerful companion, there’s a breed out there that’s just perfect for you.
So, let’s dive in and discover some pawsome dog breeds starting with P that might just steal your heart.
List of Dog Breeds Starting With P – Breeds of Dog
1. Papillon
2. Pomeranian
3. Poodle
4. Pug
5. Pointer
6. Pyrenean Mastiff
7. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen
8. Peruvian Inca Orchid
9. Portuguese Water Dog
10. Pharaoh Hound
11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
12. Pit Bull Terrier
13. Polish Lowland Sheepdog
14. Puli
15. Plott Hound
16. Parson Russell Terrier
17. Portuguese Podengo
18. Pekingese
19. Presa Canario
20. Pyrenean Shepherd
1. Papillon:
Description: The Papillon is a small toy breed known for its distinctive butterfly-like ears. They have a fine bone structure, a plumed tail, and a silky, straight coat.
Lifespan: Papillons typically live around 12 to 16 years.
Characteristics: Papillons are intelligent, alert, and friendly. They are agile and excel in activities like obedience and agility. Despite their small size, they have a lively and outgoing nature.
Interesting Facts:
- “Papillon” is French for “butterfly,” referring to their ears’ appearance.
- They were favored by European royalty, including Marie Antoinette.
Temperament: Papillons are affectionate and make excellent companions. They may be reserved with strangers, but they are generally good with children and other pets.
2. Pomeranian:
Description: The Pomeranian is a small toy breed known for its fluffy double coat and fox-like expression. They have a compact body, erect ears, and a plumed tail.
Lifespan: Pomeranians typically live around 12 to 16 years.
Characteristics: Pomeranians are lively, intelligent, and confident. They have a bold personality and may not be aware of their small size. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat.
Interesting Facts:
- Queen Victoria of England had a significant influence on popularizing Pomeranians.
- They belong to the Spitz family and were larger in the past.
Temperament: Pomeranians are affectionate and make excellent companions. They can be vocal and may have a strong independent streak. Socialization is crucial for a well-adjusted Pomeranian.
3. Poodle:
Description: The Poodle comes in three sizes—standard, miniature, and toy. Known for their curly, hypoallergenic coat, they have a distinctive appearance with a well-proportioned body.
Lifespan: Poodles typically live around 10 to 18 years, depending on the size.
Characteristics: Poodles are intelligent, trainable, and versatile. They excel in various dog sports and activities. The hypoallergenic coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
Interesting Facts:
- Poodles were originally water retrievers, known for their swimming abilities.
- They are one of the most trainable breeds and have been used in circuses.
Temperament: Poodles are known for their intelligence and are often considered hypoallergenic. They are good with families and may be reserved with strangers. Regular mental stimulation is essential.
4. Pug:
Description: The Pug is a small, sturdy breed known for its distinctive wrinkled face and curled tail. They have a compact, muscular body and a smooth coat.
Lifespan: Pugs typically live around 12 to 15 years.
Characteristics: Pugs are affectionate, charming, and sociable. They have a laid-back personality and enjoy being the center of attention. Their unique appearance and friendly nature make them popular companions.
Interesting Facts:
- Pugs have ancient Chinese origins and were favored by Chinese emperors.
- They are known for their distinctive “smushed” face and curled tail.
Temperament: Pugs are known for being good with children and other pets. They thrive on human companionship and are adaptable to various living environments.
5. Pointer:
Description: The Pointer is a medium to large-sized hunting breed known for its athleticism and keen sense of smell. They have a sleek, muscular build and a short coat.
Lifespan: Pointers typically live around 12 to 15 years.
Characteristics: Pointers are energetic, intelligent, and friendly. They were originally bred for bird hunting and have a strong prey drive. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial for this breed.
Interesting Facts:
- Pointers are known for their distinctive “pointing” stance when they locate game birds.
- They make excellent family pets but require an active lifestyle.
Temperament: Pointers are known for being good with children and other pets. They are trainable and make loyal companions, especially for families with an active lifestyle.
6. Pyrenean Mastiff:
Description: The Pyrenean Mastiff is a large, powerful livestock guardian breed known for its strength and protective instincts. They have a thick double coat and a noble appearance.
Lifespan: Pyrenean Mastiffs typically live around 10 to 13 years.
Characteristics: Pyrenean Mastiffs are calm, gentle, and protective. They were originally bred to guard livestock in the Pyrenees Mountains. They are loyal to their families and may be reserved with strangers.
Interesting Facts:
- They are one of the oldest and largest livestock guardian breeds.
- Pyrenean Mastiffs have a distinctive mane of hair around their neck.
Temperament: Pyrenean Mastiffs are known for their calm demeanor. They are loyal to their families and can be good with children. Proper socialization is essential.
7. Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen:
Description: The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen, often called PBGV, is a small hound breed known for its distinctive appearance with a shaggy coat, long ears, and a friendly expression.
Lifespan: Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens typically live around 12 to 15 years.
Characteristics: PBGVs are cheerful, extroverted, and independent. They were bred for hunting small game and have a keen sense of smell. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are important for their well-being.
Interesting Facts:
- They originated in France and were developed for hunting in the rough and challenging terrain of the Vendée region.
- PBGVs are part of the hound group and have a strong hunting instinct.
Temperament: Petit Basset Griffon Vendéens are known for being good with children and other pets. They have a lively and playful nature and require regular activities to keep them happy.
8. Peruvian Inca Orchid:
Description: The Peruvian Inca Orchid, or Peruvian Hairless Dog, is a unique breed known for its hairless appearance, though some individuals may have a short coat. They come in various sizes.
Lifespan: Peruvian Inca Orchids typically live around 12 to 14 years.
Characteristics: Peruvian Inca Orchids are affectionate, agile, and alert. They were originally used as companion dogs and are known for their loyalty to their families. Skin care is crucial due to their hairless nature.
Interesting Facts:
- They are one of the few hairless dog breeds in the world.
- The breed has ancient origins and has been depicted in pre-Columbian ceramics.
Temperament: Peruvian Inca Orchids are known for being good with children and adaptable to various living environments. They are loyal and may be reserved with strangers.
9. Portuguese Water Dog:
Description: The Portuguese Water Dog is a medium-sized working breed known for its intelligence and love for water activities. They have a curly or wavy coat and a distinctive lion cut.
Lifespan: Portuguese Water Dogs typically live around 10 to 14 years.
Characteristics: Portuguese Water Dogs are loyal, trainable, and energetic. They were historically used by Portuguese fishermen for herding fish and retrieving nets. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential.
Interesting Facts:
- The breed gained popularity when Bo, a Portuguese Water Dog, became the First Dog of the United States during the Obama administration.
- They excel in water-related activities, including swimming and retrieving.
Temperament: Portuguese Water Dogs are known for being good with children and other pets. They have a playful nature and require activities to keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
10. Pharaoh Hound:
Description: The Pharaoh Hound is a medium-sized, elegant breed known for its sleek coat and striking amber eyes. They have a slender build and large, expressive ears.
Lifespan: Pharaoh Hounds typically live around 12 to 14 years.
Characteristics: Pharaoh Hounds are intelligent, athletic, and affectionate. They were originally bred for hunting in ancient Egypt and are known for their speed and agility. Regular exercise is important for this breed.
Interesting Facts:
- They are often called the “Blushing Dog” due to their tendency to blush when excited or happy.
- Pharaoh Hounds are one of the oldest known domesticated dog breeds.
Temperament: Pharaoh Hounds are known for being gentle and good with children. They form strong bonds with their families and may be reserved with strangers. Positive reinforcement is effective in training.
11. Pembroke Welsh Corgi:
Description: The Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a small herding breed known for its distinctively short legs, long body, and fox-like expression. They have a dense double coat.
Lifespan: Pembroke Welsh Corgis typically live around 12 to 15 years.
Characteristics: Corgis are intelligent, affectionate, and lively. They were originally bred for herding cattle in Wales and are known for their agility. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are essential.
Interesting Facts:
- Queen Elizabeth II has owned several Pembroke Welsh Corgis.
- Corgis are known for their remarkable problem-solving skills.
Temperament: Pembroke Welsh Corgis are good with children and other pets. They are loyal to their families and may have a strong herding instinct. Positive reinforcement is effective in training.
12. Pit Bull Terrier:
Description: The Pit Bull Terrier, often used as an umbrella term for several related breeds, is known for its muscular build and distinct head shape. They have a short, smooth coat.
Lifespan: Pit Bulls typically live around 12 to 16 years.
Characteristics: Pit Bulls are strong, agile, and affectionate. They are known for their loyalty to their families. Proper socialization and positive reinforcement training are crucial for this breed.
Interesting Facts:
- Pit Bulls were historically known as “nanny dogs” for their gentle nature with children.
- They are often used in therapy work due to their friendly disposition.
Temperament: Pit Bulls are affectionate and can be good with children. They require early socialization and consistent training to ensure they become well-behaved companions.
13. Polish Lowland Sheepdog:
Description: The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, or PON, is a medium-sized herding breed known for its shaggy, double coat and distinctive beard. They have a strong and muscular build.
Lifespan: Polish Lowland Sheepdogs typically live around 12 to 14 years.
Characteristics: PONs are intelligent, agile, and adaptable. They were originally bred for herding and guarding livestock in Poland. They are known for their friendly and outgoing nature.
Interesting Facts:
- The breed is often referred to as the “Polski Owczarek Nizinny.”
- PONs have a strong herding instinct and may try to herd their family members.
Temperament: Polish Lowland Sheepdogs are known for being good with children and other pets. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom.
14. Puli:
Description: The Puli is a small to medium-sized herding breed known for its distinctive corded coat that forms tight curls. They have a compact build and a fox-like expression.
Lifespan: Pulis typically live around 12 to 16 years.
Characteristics: Pulis are energetic, intelligent, and adaptable. They were originally bred for herding and have a strong work ethic. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain their unique coat.
Interesting Facts:
- The Puli is often referred to as the “mop dog” due to its corded coat.
- They are known for their agility and have excelled in various dog sports.
Temperament: Pulis are known for being good with children and other pets. They are loyal to their families and may be reserved with strangers. Positive reinforcement training works well with this breed.
15. Plott Hound:
Description: The Plott Hound is a medium to large-sized hunting breed known for its strength, endurance, and distinctive brindle coat. They have a sleek and muscular build.
Lifespan: Plott Hounds typically live around 12 to 14 years.
Characteristics: Plott Hounds are intelligent, determined, and brave. They were originally bred for hunting boar and large game. They have a strong sense of smell and require regular exercise.
Interesting Facts:
- Plott Hounds are the only coonhound breed not descended from foxhounds.
- They were developed in North Carolina by the Plott family.
Temperament: Plott Hounds are known for being good with children and other dogs. They have a tenacious hunting instinct and require proper training and socialization.
16. Parson Russell Terrier:
Description: The Parson Russell Terrier, often called the Jack Russell Terrier, is a small and energetic terrier breed known for its alert expression and compact, athletic build.
Lifespan: Parson Russell Terriers typically live around 13 to 16 years.
Characteristics: Parson Russells are intelligent, energetic, and tenacious. They were originally bred for fox hunting and have a strong prey drive. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial.
Interesting Facts:
- The breed was developed by the Reverend John Russell in the 19th century for hunting purposes.
- They are known for their agility and enthusiasm for various dog sports.
Temperament: Parson Russells are known for being clever and good with children. They have a bold personality and may not be suitable for first-time dog owners. Early training and socialization are essential.
17. Portuguese Podengo:
Description: The Portuguese Podengo is a small to medium-sized hound breed known for its sleek build, erect ears, and lively expression. They come in three size varieties: small, medium, and large.
Lifespan: Portuguese Podengos typically live around 12 to 16 years.
Characteristics: Podengos are intelligent, agile, and independent. They were originally bred for hunting rabbits and other small game. Regular exercise is essential to keep them happy and healthy.
Interesting Facts:
- The breed has ancient origins and is considered one of the oldest in Europe.
- Portuguese Podengos are known for their endurance and versatility in hunting.
Temperament: Portuguese Podengos are known for being good with children and other pets. They may be reserved with strangers and require early socialization. Positive reinforcement is effective in training.
18. Pekingese:
Description: The Pekingese is a small toy breed known for its distinctive flat face, long flowing mane, and compact build. They have a regal and dignified appearance.
Lifespan: Pekingese typically live around 12 to 14 years.
Characteristics: Pekingese are affectionate, independent, and confident. They were originally bred as companions for Chinese royalty. Regular grooming is essential to maintain their luxurious coat.
Interesting Facts:
- Pekingese were considered sacred in ancient China and were owned exclusively by the imperial family.
- The breed’s appearance is often likened to that of a lion.
Temperament: Pekingese are known for their loyalty to their families. They may be reserved with strangers and are generally more suitable for households without very young children. Early socialization is important.
19. Presa Canario:
Description: The Presa Canario is a large and muscular Molosser-type breed known for its powerful build, broad head, and short coat. They have a strong and imposing presence.
Lifespan: Presa Canarios typically live around 9 to 11 years.
Characteristics: Presa Canarios are confident, loyal, and territorial. They were originally bred for guarding and herding livestock. Proper training and socialization are crucial for this breed.
Interesting Facts:
- The breed has its origins in the Canary Islands and was developed for working on farms.
- Presa Canarios are known for their strong protective instincts.
Temperament: Presa Canarios are known for being loyal to their families. They may be reserved with strangers and require early socialization to prevent aggressive behavior. Consistent training is essential.
20. Pyrenean Shepherd:
Description: The Pyrenean Shepherd is a small to medium-sized herding breed known for its agility, intelligence, and distinct coat. They have a lively and alert expression.
Lifespan: Pyrenean Shepherds typically live around 14 to 17 years.
Characteristics: Pyrenean Shepherds are energetic, intelligent, and affectionate. They were originally bred for herding in the Pyrenees Mountains. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are crucial for their well-being.
Interesting Facts:
- Pyrenean Shepherds come in two coat varieties: rough-faced and smooth-faced.
- They are known for their versatility and have excelled in various dog sports.
Temperament: Pyrenean Shepherds are known for being good with children and other pets. They have a lively and playful nature and may be reserved with strangers. Positive reinforcement is effective in training.