Pets Around the World – Meet 24 Fascinating Dog Breeds from Every Corner of the Globe
Whether they’re worshipped as divine beings or simply adored as loyal companions, pets have captured hearts across continents. Come explore the world of pets with us!
The journey to learn about pets from around the world will take a lot less than 180 days, but we will still get to explore some of the most fascinating dog breeds from many different counties worldwide.
Did you know that there are over 340 different dog breeds in the world? From tiny toy breeds to mighty working dogs, each breed has its own unique set of characteristics that make them fascinating in their own way.
Dog Park Bingo is a fun way to practice identifying all the different breeds.
Some of these dogs may be so common they are sitting next to you as you read this. Others are so unusual and rare, you may have never heard of them before. It is also fascinating to learn where these breeds come from. Some of these pets from around the world might surprise you when you learn their origin.
Let’s dive into the wonderful world of canine companions and learn more about just a few of these pets around the world.
China‘s Dog Breeds: Ancient and Unique Canines
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus were once favored by Chinese royalty, considered sacred, and never sold or traded. They’re nicknamed “lion dogs” due to their lion-like appearance.
The Shih Tzu was the inspiration for the character Gizmo from the movie “Gremlins”, and it increased the breed’s popularity.
Chow Chow
Chow Chows have a blue-black tongue, a unique feature only shared with the Shar-Pei. They were used as hunting dogs in ancient China.
Sigmund Frued, the founder of psychoanalysis, was a famous Chow Chow owner. He had his dogs helping him with his therapeutic work.
Pug
I didn’t realize it, but Pugs are an Asian breed of dog. They were bred to be companion dogs for Chinese nobility. They have a distinctive “wrinkled” face, which was highly prized in ancient China.
Now, the whole world gets to appreciate them, and they are one of the most popular dog breeds in the US. It can be difficult to travel with them internationally if they weigh over 8kgs because of limits put on flying with snub nose breeds in cargo.
The famous pug, Doug the Pug, has over 3.8 million Instagram followers.
Japanese Dogs: A Blend of Beauty and Loyalty
Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu is the smallest of the six native Japanese dog breeds. They were originally bred for hunting in Japan’s dense underbrush.
These dogs bond closely with their family. They are alert and protective.
The viral “Doge” meme features a Shiba Inu named Kabosu. He became the face of Dogecoin
Japanese Chin
Despite their name, Japanese Chins likely originated in China and were brought to Japan as gifts. They were often gifted to diplomats and royalty as a sign of goodwill.
They are described as charming and loveable
Japanese Chins are unexpectedly athletic. They like to climb, and are known for their unique “Chin Spin,” a dance-like movement on their hind legs.
Japanese White Akita
The Akita is a large and powerful breed, originally used for hunting large game. Akitas are considered a national treasure in Japan.
Hachiko, a famous Akita, is remembered for his unwavering loyalty, waiting at a train station for his deceased owner for over nine years. After his death, a statue was erected in his honor.
Dog Breeds in India: Swift and Elegant Hunter
The Chippiparai
The Chippiparai is the most popular breed originally from India. It is a sighthound breed native to Southern India, particularly in the region of Tamil Nadu. They were originally bred for hunting small game and were favored by the Indian royalty and aristocracy.
Chippiparais are known for their speed, stamina, and grace, as well as their loyalty and low-maintenance grooming requirements. They often connect with one favorite human rather than an entire family.
Classic British Canines: Dog breeds of the UK
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Corgis are small herding dogs originally bred to drive cattle in Wales. They have a distinctive long, low-to-the-ground body and are known for their agility.
Queen Elizabeth II is a famous Corgi enthusiast, having owned more than 30 during her reign.
Beagles
Beagles are scent hounds with an excellent sense of smell, often used for tracking and hunting. Beagles are friendly and intelligent, making them great family pets as long as they can have plenty of room to roam and tasks where they get to use their noses.
Snoopy, a famous comic strip character, is a Beagle, making the breed popular around the world.
Copenhagen Dogs: A Scandinavian Treasure
The Danish-Swedish Farmdog
This small, robust breed was once used as a versatile farm dog for herding and guarding livestock. Danish Swedish Farmdogs have a friendly and energetic temperament, making them excellent family pets. They are highly intelligent and trainable, excelling in dog sports like agility and obedience.
Finland Dogs: Nordic Canine Wonders
Finnish Spitz
Also known as the “Barking Bird Dog,” the Finnish Spitz has a unique yodel-like bark used to alert hunters. They are Finland’s national dog and were bred for hunting game such as squirrels, birds, and even bears.
Finnish Spitz dogs are friendly and lively, making them great companions for active families.
Finnish Lapphund
This breed was originally used by the Sami people to herd reindeer in Lapland, Finland. Finnish Lapphunds have a thick double coat, making them well-suited for cold climates.
They are intelligent and friendly, making them excellent family pets and therapy dogs.
Norwegian Dog Breeds: Hardy Companions of the North
Norwegian Elkhound
This ancient breed has a history dating back over 5,000 years and was used to hunt large game like moose and bear. Norwegian Elkhounds have a thick, weather-resistant coat to withstand the cold Scandinavian climate.
They are loyal and friendly, making them excellent watchdogs and family pets.
Norwegian Lundehund
The Lundehund is a rare breed known for its unique physical traits, including six toes on each foot and the ability to bend their head backward to touch their spine. They were originally bred to hunt puffins on steep cliffs, making them extremely agile and flexible.
Norwegian Lundehunds are affectionate and energetic, making them great companions for active families.
Discovering Czech Dog Breeds
Czechoslovakian Wolfdog
This breed is a hybrid of the Carpathian wolf and German Shepherd, created in the 1950s for military use. Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs have a keen sense of smell and are often used in search and rescue missions.
They are highly intelligent and need consistent training and socialization. They are better suited as working dogs than pets.
Czechoslovakian Shepherd
Also known as the Bohemian Shepherd, this breed is known for its agility and trainability. They are excellent working dogs, often used for police work, herding, and service dogs.
Czechoslovakian Shepherds are loyal and protective.
Egyptian Dogs: Ancient Companions in the Modern World
Pharaoh Hound
Pharaoh Hounds are one of the oldest known dog breeds, with depictions dating back to 4000 BCE.
The unique shape of the pharaoh hound’s head mimicked the Anubis deity of Ancient Egypt who protected the graves.
The dogs have a unique “blushing” trait where their nose and ears turn rosy when they’re excited or happy.
Pharaoh Hounds are known for their speed and agility, making them excellent hunters.
Baladi Street Dog
Baladi dogs are a not exactly one breed, but they are native to Egypt, often found roaming the streets as strays.
Baladi dogs have become popular rescue dogs, as they form strong bonds with their families and are highly trainable.
They are highly adaptable and intelligent, known for their problem-solving skills.
Kenya‘s Remarkable Canine
The African Wild Dog
The African Wild Dog is not a domesticated breed, so they are not a pet. Unfortunately, they are a highly endangered species native to Africa. Known for their unique coat patterns and large, round ears, they are also called “painted dogs.”
African Wild Dogs are highly social animals that live in packs and have complex communication systems.
Peruvian Dogs: A Glimpse into Incan History
Peruvian Inca Orchid
This hairless breed dates back to ancient Peru, with artifacts depicting the dogs found in pre-Incan graves. Their lack of fur makes them virtually hypoallergenic and requires less grooming.
Peruvian Inca Orchids are intelligent, affectionate, and do well in both city and country living.
Argentina’s Fierce and Loyal Companion
The Dogo Argentino
The Dogo Argentino is a powerful and muscular breed, originally developed for big-game hunting, such as wild boar and pumas. They are fearless and protective, making them excellent guard dogs.
Despite their intimidating appearance, Dogo Argentinos are affectionate and loyal to their families.
Bonus: The Wilson-Prudhomme Household: A Trio of Terriers
Small terriers used for hunting were often developed in England or other areas of the UK. All three of these dogs could have been listed under the England category, but I wanted to give them their own special section since these are our own special dogs.
Jack Russell Terrier
Our Thandi is from a South African line and was born in Kenya. We worked hard with her on crate training, so she made a great travel companion.
Jack Russell Terriers were originally bred in England for fox hunting, known for their high energy and tenacity. They are small but fearless dogs, often seen in dog sports such as agility, flyball, and terrier racing.
A number of Jack Russells were used in movies and TV in the ’90s. Moose, the famous Jack Russell Terrier who played Eddie on the TV show “Frasier,”, Milo was in The Mask with Jim Carey and Wishbone taught children to love stories. They all helped popularize the breed.
Border Terrier
Border Terriers, named after the border between England and Scotland, were bred to assist in fox and vermin hunting. They have a distinctive otter-shaped head and a wiry double coat that is weather-resistant.
Border Terriers are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, making them great family pets.
In summer of 2023, Will Ferrell plays an earnest border terrier in the movie Strays (R).
Our Sam was born and raised in California. He loves the Central Coast Beaches and walks in the redwoods.
Norwich Terrier
The Norwich Terrier, one of the smallest terrier breeds, was developed in England for ratting and fox hunting. They have a unique prick-eared appearance and a sturdy, compact build.
Norwich Terriers are intelligent, affectionate, and good with children, making them perfect family companions.
Our Denver is originally from the East Coast of the US, but his small size makes him perfect for flying in the cabin of a plane.
Winky, a Norwich Terrier, featured prominently in the 2000 comedy film “Best in Show,” bringing attention to the breed and showcasing its charming personality.
If you want to put a smile on your face, watch Eugene Levy and Catherine O’Hara sing a duet to the song, “God Loves a Terrier“
Final Thoughts: Pets Around the World
From ancient Egyptian breeds to the terrier trio of the Wilson Household, our exploration of these diverse and captivating dog breeds has showcased the incredible bond between humans and their canine friends. These breeds, each with their unique characteristics and histories, remind us of the love and companionship dogs bring to our lives, transcending borders and cultures.
If you traveled to any of these countries with your dog, share your experience and stamp you pet’s passport!
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