Although a walk through the park is sure to give a feel of the numerous exotic breeds that America is now home to, only some of them can claim the all-American blood. And it’s a much more challenging job to spot dog breeds developed in the United States. So, as we move through this list of dog breeds developed in the USA, keep us posted on how many of them you already know!
1. American Eskimo Dog
American Eskimo dogs have had many roles throughout history and excelled at all of them. From serving during the world war to being circus dogs, their popularity was at an all-time high back in the day. Eskies, as they are popularly called, have remarkable agility and intelligence. Due to this, they’re easy to train and make great family dogs. These fluffy white dogs enjoy a life span of 13-15 years and can weigh up to 35 pounds in adulthood.
2. Boston Terrier
Boston Terrier, or “The American Gentleman”, has earned its popularity due to its tuxedo coat, friendly nature, and good manners. The Boston Terriers have an average life span of 11-13 years and weigh as little as 12-25 pounds in adulthood. Since they are compact dogs with high energy and playful temperament, they are ever ready for adventures. The small size also makes them excellent companions for people living in apartments.
3. American Water Spaniel
The origin of the American Water Spaniel is shrouded in mystery. The consensus is that their place of origin is Winsconsin, where it is the state’s dog. The Water Spaniel has a life span of 10-15 years and weighs up to 45 pounds in adulthood. The American Water Spaniels were bred to be gundogs and retrieve game in the freezing waters of the Great Lakes region. Due to this, the breed’s swimming abilities and stamina are unmatched. They have incredibly high energy levels and need a job to do at all times. Therefore they do well in active homes.
4. American Foxhound
American Foxhounds are remarkably similar to Beagles; however, the former has a more prominent and lankier frame. The Foxhounds belong to the scent hound group and were popular during Colonial America due to their incredible hunting abilities. This breed usually has a lifespan of 11-13 years and can weigh up to 70 pounds in adulthood. They are high-energy breeds with independent, easy going and sweet temperaments. Their hunting abilities were so renowned back in the day that President George Washington maintained a large pack of hounds at Mount Vernon for use in various hunting games.
5. American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier is most popularly known as the American Pit Bull Terrier. However, the latter is not recognised by the American Kennel Club. Typically, these dogs have a lifespan of 12-16 years and tend to weigh 50-80 pounds. These ferocious dogs were populous on the farms of America as early as the 1800s. They were regarded as skilful hunting, guarding and companion dogs. However, when the breed became more popular as a fighting dog, it gained a new reputation that’s still feared. Today, Staffordshire owners could swear by their dog’s one-of-a-kind companionship; however, most people are largely unswayed by their views.
6. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds’ name is a misnomer as this breed was developed in the United States. This breed is renowned all over the world for its herding abilities. In fact, the Australian Shepherd is considered an ancestor for some of the most popular Shepherds dogs, including German Shepherds, Border Collies, and the Shetland Sheepdog. Australian Shepherds can have a life span of 13-16 years and generally weigh 35-70 pounds in adulthood. Due to their superior intelligence and high energy, this breed can be trained to do just about any job. Moreover, their people-pleasing attitude and easygoing nature make them a joy to have around at all times.
7. Black and Tan Coonhound
The Black and Tan Coonhound was created by crossing several European Hounds, including the Bloodhound, to fashion a breed skilled at hunting raccoons. The Coonhounds are known to live for 10-12 years and can weigh up to 55-75 pounds. Due to their rich hunting ancestry, these dogs tend to be mighty hunters with remarkable stamina, agility, and energy. For this reason, the breed can be quite a handful for a first-time owner. However, being a companion dog loyal and devoted to its family isn’t entirely off their radar. A firm, assertive owner who can establish boundaries with the dog, can bring out the best in the Coonhound. Additionally, due to their high energy and excessive demands, these dogs are best for people with active lifestyles.
8. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever was created in Maryland in the 1800s by two puppies rescued from a shipwreck off the coast of Maryland. These sturdy canines have a lifespan of 10-13 years and weigh up to 55 to 80 pounds in adulthood. Due to being developed around Maryland’s frigid waters, these dogs have developed a remarkable resilience to survive in harsh weather. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is an excellent swimmer with a waterproof coat that helps them stay afloat for extended periods. However, despite being a Retriever breed, they aren’t ideal companion dogs due to their territorial and independent nature. Although, assertive owners and consistent training can easily mould these dogs into the dog of your dreams.
9. Cocker Spaniel
American Cocker spaniel is a beloved breed throughout the USA. They primarily take up the role of a companion dog; however, due to their Spaniel ancestry, the Cocker Spaniel can go on a chase every once in a while. The breed usually has a life span of 10-14 years and may weigh close to 30-40 pounds at maturity. Cocker Spaniels have mellow personalities; they’re outgoing but sometimes nervous. Due to this nervousness and compassionate nature, the dog should always be supervised when around kids. The best family for a Cocker Spaniel is one that is active and playful.
10. Toy Fox Terrier
Toy Fox Terriers, or TFTs, were created from their larger cousins, the Smooth Fox Terriers. These compact-sized pooches have a lifespan of 12-14 years, and they typically weigh between 3.5 to 7 pounds. TFTs were bred to be small enough to assist in rodent control. They have also been a popular choice for various jobs, including being farm ratters and hunters of small game such as squirrels. Being true to their breed ancestry, the Toy Fox Terriers are a Terrier breed in all of their heart and soul. They have fiery instincts to hunt, but at the same time, they make for loving companions.