16 Dog Breeds That Start With A

Dog Breeds That Start With A
Photo by Maëva Vigier
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Are you looking for dog breeds that start with A? Look no further!

This blog post will provide a comprehensive list of all dog breeds that start with the letter A.

We’ll explore each breed’s history, characteristics, and physical features so you can make an informed decision when selecting a canine companion.

From Affenpinschers to Azawakhs, get ready to learn more about all the unique dog breeds that start with A!

1. Affenpinscher

The Affenpinscher, also known as the Monkey Dog, is a small dog breed that originated in Germany.

It is one of the oldest toy dog breeds, starting with A, dating back to the 17th century.

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It was initially produced to help keep homes free of rodents and other pests. 

The breed is full of spunk and spirit and loves being the center of attention.

They are affectionate and devoted to their family but can sometimes be stubborn. 

Affenpinschers are very alert and active, making them excellent watchdogs.

They are also intelligent and have a good memory so they can be easily trained with patience and consistency.

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2. Akita

The Akita is a large and powerful dog breed originating in Japan.

The Japanese government has designated the Akita one of the seven breeds designated as a national monument. It is widely considered a symbol of loyalty and courage.

The Akita is also known for its independent nature and is recognized as one of the top ten dog breeds that start with A. 

This breed is popular with families due to its calm and loyal personality.

Akitas are strong, intelligent dogs with high energy levels, making them well-suited for active owners who can provide them with plenty of exercise

They also require plenty of grooming, including regular brushing and nail trimming.

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Akitas can live up to twelve years if adequately cared for.

3. Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound is a unique and beautiful dog easily recognizable by its thick, flowing coat.

This breed is a member of the sighthound family and was initially bred in Afghanistan.

They are among the oldest known species and have been used as hunting dogs for centuries. 

The Afghan Hound is around 28 inches tall and weighs up to 60 pounds.

They come in various colors: black, white, brown, fawn, cream, and red.

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These dogs have an independent spirit and require consistent, firm training from their owners. 

While loyal and devoted to their family, they can be aloof with strangers and require early socialization.

Afghan Hounds need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy.

They make wonderful companions for active households and make excellent watchdogs.

4. Aidi

The Aidi is a medium-sized, working dog breed that originates from Morocco.

They are part of the herding group and are incredibly loyal and protective.

Aidis are known for their intelligence, making them an ideal companion for anyone looking for an active, intelligent dog. 

These dog breeds that start with A have a powerful instinct to guard livestock, making them excellent guard dogs.

Their thick, woolly coat helps them stay warm in cold climates and keep them cool in the summer.

Aidis strongly desire to please their owners and are very sensitive to their moods, making them great companions.

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5. Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier, known as the “King of Terriers,” is one of the most popular dog breeds that start with A.

This breed is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and playful spirit.

The Airedale Terrier stands up to 23 inches tall and weighs between 40-65 pounds. 

They have a thick, rough double coat, which can be tan, black, or grizzle.

The Airedale Terrier is an active dog requiring a daily walk, jog, and mental stimulation. 

They make excellent watchdogs as they are pretty vocal when necessary.

The Airedale Terrier is a great family pet, providing loyalty and protection to those it loves.

6. Alaskan Malamute

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The Alaskan Malamute is a large breed of dog that has been around for thousands of years.

It is one of the oldest known breeds of dogs and is thought to have originated in Siberia.

This robust and hardy working dog is well-known for its strength and endurance and was bred to pull heavy loads, often over long distances. 

With its thick double coat and impressive stature, the Alaskan Malamute is one of the most recognizable dog breeds, and it starts with the letter A.

They are devoted family pets who need lots of exercise, mental stimulation, and interaction with their owners to stay happy and healthy.

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While they can be wary of strangers, their friendly, loyal, and even-tempered nature makes them excellent companions for those willing to put in the effort.

7. Aussie Flat

The Aussie Flat is one of the dog breeds that starts with A. It is a mix of a Chihuahua and a Jack Russell Terrier.

The Aussie Flat stands about 8-11 inches tall and weighs 8-20 pounds. 

It has a stocky build with short legs, floppy ears, and a docked tail.

Its coat can range from smooth to wirehaired and comes in many colors, such as black and tan, chocolate, red, and cream.

The Aussie Flat is a loyal companion that loves to play and snuggle. 

They are intelligent dogs that need lots of exercise and mental stimulation. The Aussie Flat is an excellent guard dog and a great family pet.

8. American Eskimo Dog

American Eskimo Dog is one of the most popular dog breeds, starting with A.

This breed originates from Germany, where it was initially known as the German Spitz.

The American Eskimo Dog is an energetic and playful breed known for its intelligence and loyalty. 

They are also highly affectionate and make excellent family pets. The American Eskimo Dog is a medium-sized breed with a dense coat ranging from white to cream.

They require regular brushing and grooming to maintain their beautiful fur. 

They do well in various environments and are generally good with children and pets.

American Eskimo Dogs are easy to train and thrive in an active home.

They love to be around people and are loyal companions who will be devoted to their owners.

9. American Foxhound

Photo by giovannistrapazzon

American Foxhound is one of the oldest dog breeds that starts with A. It was originally bred to hunt foxes in the United States.

The American Foxhound is tall, lean, and muscular, standing between 21 and 25 inches tall. 

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They have short coats in several colors, including white, tan, black, and red.

American Foxhounds have impressive energy and stamina, making them great companions for active individuals.

These dogs are friendly and outgoing with other animals but can be pretty vocal, and they may need regular socialization training to prevent them from being too loud. 

They tend to wander, so they should be walked on a leash or kept securely fenced in yards.

With their kind and gentle nature, the American Foxhound makes a great family pet and a loyal companion.

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10. American Staffordshire Terrier

The American Staffordshire Terrier is one of the most popular dog breeds, starting with A.

It is a muscular, solid, and loyal breed initially bred to guard farms and later became a companion animal.

This breed has a short, close coat in various colors and patterns. 

The American Staffordshire Terrier is known for its courage and intelligence, making it an excellent pet for experienced owners.

It does require regular exercise and socialization, but once trained, it will be a loyal and protective friend. As with many dog breeds that start with A, the American Staffordshire Terrier needs early training and socialization to prevent potential aggression. 

11. Australian Cattle Dog

Also known as the Australian Heeler, this dog breed starts with A and is a herding dog originally developed in Australia for droving cattle over long distances.

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They are brilliant, hard-working, and loyal.

Australian Cattle Dogs require an experienced owner with lots of patience, but they can make great family companions if given proper training and socialization. 

They protect their family, so they must be taught how to interact with other dogs and people.

Australian Cattle Dogs have short coats with red or blue speckles and usually weigh between 33 and 50 pounds.

12. Abruzzenhund

The Abruzzenhund is a medium-sized dog breed that starts with A and originated in Italy.

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The breed was developed in the 18th century and is named after the Abruzzo region of Italy.

They are an active, intelligent breed with a strong prey drive and a friendly, easy-going temperament. 

They make excellent companion dogs and are great with children.

They are also highly trainable and often used as service dogs and guard dogs.

Abruzzenhunds have thick coats in various colors, including black, fawn, and brindle.

13. Andalusian Podenco

This small-medium-sized dog breed originates from the southern region of Spain and is one dog breed that starts with A.

The Andalusian Podenco has a short coat that can be black, white, or tan.

It has a long muzzle and pointed ears, which give it an alert and friendly look. 

The Andalusian Podenco is an active and loyal dog that loves to explore its environment.

This breed is amiable and affectionate, making it a great companion for children and other family members.

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If you’re looking for an active, loyal, and friendly dog breed that starts with A, the Andalusian Podenco could be the perfect fit.

14. Auss-Tzu

The Auss-Tzu is a crossbreed between the Shih Tzu and the Australian Terrier.

This dog breed that starts with A is a small, active, energetic breed with a cute teddy bear look.

They are good with children and other pets and need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. 

They have a thick, medium-length coat that may require regular grooming.

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This breed is loyal and playful, making them an ideal companion for active households.

15. American English Coonhound

The American English Coonhound is one of the dog breeds that start with A.

This breed is a descendant of the English Foxhound, brought to the United States during the colonial period.

The American English Coonhound is a large, active dog with a good nose and a tenacious attitude. 

It is an excellent hunter, and it is used to track and tree raccoons, possums, and other small game.

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This breed is known for its intelligence and friendly disposition, although it can be pretty vocal when hunting.

The American English Coonhound is an adaptable breed that does well in rural and urban settings.

16. Akbash

Akbash is a breed of large, white-coated guard dog from Turkey.

The species is believed to be over 3000 years old and has been used for centuries to guard livestock and people.

These loyal dogs make excellent watchdogs, as they are alert and territorial. 

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Akbash dog breeds that start with A are incredibly devoted and protective, making them an ideal choice for homes with children.

Akbash dogs require plenty of physical and mental exercise and need firm but loving training to keep them in check.

Akbash dogs tend to bond closely with their family, making them highly devoted and affectionate.

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