Do you want a one-of-a-kind and extraordinary dog breed that not many other people have ever heard of? If this is the case, you might want to investigate Dog breeds that start with H.
These dogs are rare and unusual breeds but make wonderful companion animals.
In this article, we’ll examine some Dog breeds that start with H so that you can learn more about them and decide if one would be a good fit for you.
1. Hamiltonstovare
The Hamiltonstovare is a versatile breed of medium-sized canines that, as a devoted family pet, hunts foxes and hares and competes in dog shows.
It has a rectangular body, long head, robust neck, deep, well-developed chest, well-defined withers, almond-shaped eyes, soft, dangling flat ears, strong nose, and tail that tapers toward the tip.
Despite having a similar appearance to an English Foxhound, it can tell the difference by its lighter structure.
These Dog breeds that start with H have the temperament of a typical hound. They are relentless hunters with a high prey drive and good senses of smell and sight.
The Hamilton Hound is a scent-driven dog that follows its nose wherever it leads. This breed can adapt, yet it may also be stubborn, like a hound.
Due to its high energy levels, the Hamilton Hound demands frequent activities. To meet its exercise needs, it should be given at least 20 minutes of unrestricted running time in a securely fenced yard.
They love to participate in any sport, including lure coursing, agility, rally, weight pulling, and dock diving, because it is a breed that serves multiple purposes.
Its coat requires very little upkeep and is simple to clean. You should brush it occasionally because it sheds just a moderate amount. It will look its finest if you bathe it once a month and take good care of your teeth and nails.
2. Havanese
The Havanese, a breed similar to the Bichon, is considered Cuba’s national canine. Because of their small size and adorable appearance, they are wonderful companion animals.
Breeders thought they evolved from the now-extinct Blanquito de la Habana (small white Dog of Havana).
Since dawn, seafaring traders have traded adorable lapdogs of this type, with the nobility or aristocratic class making up most of the market.
These Dog breeds that start with H like their human family’s companionship and enjoy following their master from one room to the next.
They are adorable, intelligent, kind, and affectionate. Because of this characteristic, they find it challenging to spend extended periods alone.
The Havanese is also a great performer, making you laugh till you cry with its hilarious antics.
They are inquisitive and aware of their environment, yet they are not hostile to outsiders. Most dog breeds that start with H would extend a cordial greeting to a visitor.
At the same time, some of them may initially show reserve before letting loose after they observe their master successfully interacting with the visitor. They also get along well with children, dogs, and other animals.
Their amiable and calming attitude makes them suitable as therapy dogs for the physically or mentally handicapped, companion dogs for empty nesters or those looking for a buddy, and signal dogs for persons with hearing loss.
These Dog breeds that start with H require only light activity, which a daily brisk walk and enough fun can meet. Since they are apartment dogs, they thrive if their energy is properly directed indoors.
Excess hair should not be removed from a young or senior Havanese. If you see your dog panting or looking worn out, take it home and give it plenty of rest.
3. Harrier Hound
The Harrier is a medium-sized dog breed developed for pack hare and fox hunting.
The Harrier is distinguished by its proportionate head, medium-sized eyes, low-set ears, strong neck, powerful back, deep chest, good straight legs, and long, high-set tail, giving the impression of a working hound.
It is slightly smaller than the English Foxhound despite being bigger and stronger than the Beagle.
Uncertainty surrounds the breed’s ancestry, and conflicting accounts of its evolution abound.
Some think the Harrier hounds may have descended from Talbot, Bloodhounds, and Basset Hounds because Harrier is an English word with French roots.
Another hypothesis holds that the Harrier is merely a scaled-down Foxhound.
The Harrier is a people-oriented dog that enjoys being near its owners and other animals.
It is playful and affectionate, but it is also a calm family pet that gets along well with kids.
These Dog breeds that start with H can learn to cooperate with other dogs and are never violent toward them because they are pack hounds.
If not socialized from a young age, it can regard non-canine pets like hamsters, squirrels, and cats as prey. It enjoys exploring and may dig or pursue a pleasant scent like a regular hound.
The Harrier needs plenty of regular activities to maintain its high energy and stamina; otherwise, it risks being destructive.
Its coat needs moderate upkeep, such as a weekly brush with a rubber curry brush or hound mitt. Because its long, drooping ears are prone to infections, it would be best to gently clean them with a cotton ball dipped in a cleaning solution suggested by the vet.
It would be best if you cut its nails regularly, and it should brush its teeth at least twice a week. Certain genetic disorders, like hip and elbow dysplasia, are more common in some Harriers.
Harrier hounds can be independent and stubborn; thus, they require a tough and skilled trainer when being trained.
You could train it to dig in a certain yard area to assist it in obtaining an outlet for its energy. In the digging section, you can bury toys and treats for your Dog to discover.
Make sure the ground is not dusty and damp. Harriers are particularly helpful for drag hunting because their slower pace is not a hindrance.
4. Hovawart
The Hovawart is a large-sized working dog that evolved during the Middle Ages in the Black Forest mountain range.
With a clean head, somewhat broad skull, deep nose, well-defined stop, oval-shaped eyes, triangular, drooping ears, a medium-sized neck, straight front legs, and round, compact feet, it has a strong, well-balanced physique.
These Dog breeds that start with H are loving, wise, and obedient dogs that continue to serve as working companions, whether securing the land, taking part in rescue efforts, or competing in agility trials.
Because of their vivacious and inquisitive personalities, they require an activity to keep them occupied. They appreciate working on projects with their master the most.
Hovawarts exhibit strong faithfulness and bravery without becoming possessive. Despite their polite demeanor, if provoked into an excited state, these Dog breeds that start with H will not hesitate to defend themselves.
They could act aggressively toward other home pets and are cautious of strangers. However, they remain loyal buddies when nurtured alongside kids and other animals.
Arthritis, chronic kidney failure, osteosarcoma, dilated cardiomyopathy, urethral blockage, or heart failure can all damage the Hovawart.
Training a Hovawart can be challenging for novice dog owners due to its authoritarian and stubborn personality.
Hovawarts, a working breed of dog, need a balanced diet with a reasonable intake of carbohydrates, minerals, vitamins, proteins, and fats.
You can give them chicken combined with fish, cheese, fruits, and vegetables in addition to high-quality dry foods.
5. Himalayan Sheepdog
The Himalayan Sheepdog, also known as the “Bhutey Kukur” in its native Bhutan, is a large dog breed with roots in Nepal and Northern India.
They have an athletic build, a big head that ends in a wide muzzle, and powerful jaws. They also have broad shoulders, thick necks, overlapping ears, muscular legs, and curling tails. A white spot is on the chest of several of them.
According to legend, this breed is a subbreed of the Tibetan Mastiff. Despite being well-known as companion animals, they are still useful to herders in many regions of their native country. Indigenous tribes have extensively used the violent yet agile nature of Himalayan Sheepdogs.
They are useful for hunting, herding, and livestock protection, particularly for protecting sheep and cattle from rapacious animals. Additionally, they would hunt large wildlife in the rugged Himalayan Mountains.
While bright and brave, these Dog breeds that start with H can sometimes be stubborn and obstinate. They are on the lookout and will diligently guard their owner’s home, frequently barking loudly if they notice anything odd.
Although they make ideal family dogs, Himalayan Sheepdogs should not be kept indoors due to their energetic nature.
Take your Dog for a jog on a leash every morning and evening. Each session should last 30 to 40 minutes. Play interactive activities inside a fenced-in yard with your children.
Brush your Dog’s long coat at least three to four times every week to keep it healthy and in good condition.
There have been no complaints of issues related to any breed. However, watch out for conditions such as elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, arthritis, and obesity, which are common in large dogs.
The Himalayan Sheepdogs would frequently act unyielding. Socialize them from a young age. Never keep your Dog inside for extended periods; take them for one or two daily walks. Consider taking them to pet parks where they may observe and interact with other animals.
6. Hokkaido Dog
The Hokkaido, also known as the Hokkaido Ken or Hokkaido Ainu, is a medium-sized dog breed created in its original home for its working and hunting prowess.
It has a strong, muscular neck, high-set withers, a somewhat deep chest, slightly sloping shoulders, a broad, slightly flat forehead, a wedge-shaped muzzle, short, erect ears, and a thick tail curved over its back. It is also well-built.
The Hokkaido dog—possibly the oldest breed in Japan—is believed to have descended from the Matagi-ken, a group of medium-sized hunting canines that the Ainu people brought with them from Honshu to Hokkaido some 3,000 years ago.
This Dog breed that starts with H gets along well with other small animals and kids despite its innate predatory drive if properly socialized as a young animal. It is obedient, kind, and house-loving as a family pet.
Thanks to its innate sense of scent and direction, it exhibits exceptional power, endurance, and precise judgment while hunting. It uses particular sighting signals, including howls and lengthy or short barks.
This tough canine can withstand the cold and is powerful enough to contend with wild boars and Hokkaido brown bears.
The Hokkaido needs a lot of regular exercise because it is an energetic breed. It enjoys long strolls and would make wonderful hiking, running, and playing companions for an enthusiastic owner. It excels in dog sports like dock diving, lure coursing, flyball, rallying, and agility.
Due to its dense double coat, you must brush it frequently to remove dead or loose hair. Make sure to brush its undercoat properly using a pin brush. The other is routine care, such as regular tooth brushing and nail trimming.
The Hokkaido Ainu is prone to seizures, anxiety, heart murmurs, pica, psychogenic polydipsia, collie eye abnormality, luxating patella, and hip dysplasia.
7. Havana Silk Dog
A breed of compact, hardy dogs descended from the Havanese is known as the Havana Silk Dog.
The Havanese Silk differs from its parents in that it has straighter forelegs, smaller ears, a longer nose, and a silkier coat. It has a wide, slightly rounded face, quite big, dark eyes, high-set ears, broad nose, reasonably long neck, strong legs with moderate angulation, and a medium-length tail carried high most of the time.
These Dog breeds that start with H were introduced to the US by Cuban immigrants in the late 1960s, and they served as the ancestors of the American Havanese breed.
One of the major health problems impacting the Havanese breed in 2000 was a particular type of dwarfism. Breeders began selectively breeding only dogs with long, straight forelegs.
The Havana Silk gets along with people and other pets, especially dogs, and is a loving family pet. Because of their alertness, you can use them as a watchdog but don’t anticipate them barking constantly and loudly.
These Dog breeds that start with H require a moderate level of regular activity because they are active breeds. In addition to daily playtime in a fenced yard, you should take your Dog for regular leash-free walks.
It would help if you groomed it frequently to prevent mats and tangles in its coat. Occasionally, clip its hair and gently brush it with a brush with soft bristles.
The Havana Silk is prone to several ailments, including chondrodysplasia, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, patellar luxation, heart murmurs, and deafness.
The Havana Silk can rapidly comprehend your commands because it is naturally intelligent and amiable.
Although the Havana Silk treats people with kindness, there are occasions when it may be suspicious of strangers or unduly protective of its family.
Therefore, you should socialize it early by taking it for walks and introducing it to individuals of various ages, heights, sizes, complexions, and clothing.
Your Havana Silk should be fed a portion of high-quality dog food with a healthy balance of nutrients. Check its daily calorie intake and give treats sparingly because it is prone to obesity.
8. Havapoo
The Havapoo (standard, miniature, or teacup) combines the Havanese and the Poodle. These Dog breeds that start with H are perfect for practically all types of individuals and homes thanks to their adorable appearances, active methods of moving, and attractive personalities.
Their fluffy tail, dangling ears, round button eyes, and curly coat have all contributed to their beauty.
Havapoos are amiable, lively, affectionate, intelligent, and outgoing. With tremendous kindness and intelligence, they are incredibly loving and enjoy spending time with their family.
However, because tiny dogs sometimes experience “little dog syndrome,” it is advisable to place them in households with older children. Because of their natural tendencies for play, they love playing with children.
Havapoos are also kind toward strangers and wouldn’t hesitate to form a quick connection with them.
They are also very at ease around other dogs and small animals and are more than glad to interact with any species or different breeds.
Some Havapoos are outgoing, while others are peaceful and loving, preferring to spend most of their time with their families. They are incredibly vocally sensitive, and as a result, they become very valuable companions.
Like most non-shedders, brushing your havapoo two to three times a week is sufficient to ensure no dead hairs are left on the coat. Due to their complex genetic makeup, the Havapoos, like most other crosses, are not predisposed to breed-specific health issues.
Havapoos are exuberant dogs, and diet is a major factor in their high energy levels. Ensure your Dog consumes appropriate, nutrient-rich, high-quality meals abundant in minerals and proteins daily.
9. Huskita
The Siberian Husky and the Akita are the parents of the huge crossbreed known as the Huskita. They have exceptionally strong legs, a thick build, and a curly, bushy tail.
The head and jaws are powerful, and the short muzzle ends in a round black nose. They are medium-sized to giant, lively dogs with almond-shaped eyes and broad, widely spaced, upright ears devoted to their families.
It is a highly energetic, lively, and affectionate creature that is attentive and prepared to defend its home by any means necessary, making it an ideal watchdog. Since they are terrific friends, they are perfect for people who live alone.
Huskitas are devoted to their family and are gentle with kids and other animals. They do best with just one other pet, though. They can occasionally become hostile and territorial.
While generally friendly to strangers, this breed may not always be able to welcome visitors with a calm disposition if the Akita gene governs them.
Given their power and disconnected nature, These Dog breeds that start with H might not be suitable for first-time owners. They also have an independent streak.
They require rigorous daily workout regimens for at least a couple or three hours. Take long jogs or quick walks outside. Play with your Dog in the yard or the dog park with you (but, of course, leashed).
Although they don’t shed much, their coat is dense. Brush the animal’s hair three to four times per week to remove any dead hair. Dry dog shampoo is another option for ensuring cleanliness. Only wash them when it’s essential.
Due to their stature, they may experience a variety of bone-related problems, the most prevalent of which is hip dysplasia. It’s important to take into account inherited conditions like a propensity for obesity, bloating, eye issues, SA, and hypothyroidism.
10. Havamalt
The Havamalt, a hybrid dog breed developed by mixing a Havanese with a Maltese, is renowned for its gentle and sweet temperament.
Breeders created this miniature toy dog to combine the best qualities of its two parent breeds. It has a small body and a smooth, velvety exterior. If properly taught, it may compete in dog sports like agility.
The Havamalts like the human company because of their gentle, affable, and friendly personalities. They frequently accompany their owners from one room to the next as devoted companions.
The Havanese/Maltese mix is a playful and happy dog that will amuse its family members with its tricks and antics. It gets along well with both people and animals and acts calmly and lovingly toward kids.
The Havamalt is mostly an inside dog and is not well-suited for many outdoor activities. It stays healthy and happy with a daily leash walk and the odd game of fetch in the backyard. Give it plenty of soft toys to keep it occupied indoors.
If you brush it frequently, its coat won’t tangle, and mats won’t grow. However, the Havamalt fur requires weekly bathing because it is readily soiled.
If your pet already has mats, gently work the mats out with your fingertips using conditioning oil or a detangler spray.
Due to their intelligence and quick learning curve, these Dog breeds that start with H respond well to obedience training and quickly pick up new talents and tricks.
Aggressive or punitive training methods might adversely affect dog breeds that start with H.
11. Hug Dog
Breeders crossed the Siberian Husky and Pug to create the Hug Dog breed. The results are just as wonderful, even if combining the two distinct breeds may sound intriguing because of their dissimilar sizes and traits.
This breed may inherit the thick, long coat of the Siberian Husky or the long, fine coat of the Pug.
In contrast to those who have adopted the Husky’s side, those who have adopted the Pug’s side may be smaller. Additionally, their appearance is unpredictable.
They have a compressed face, a straight or curling tail, flat or drooping ears, sharp ears, and a black mask. The Husky Pug hybrid has been employed for protection, investigation, and rescue operations.
Hug dogs are happy, clever, and devoted. These dogs exhibit pug-like friendliness and are very loyal to their family members. They are also kind to children and other animals.
These Dog breeds that start with H require a lot of daily activity due to their high energy level. This is also the case because they fall under the working dog category and have a genetic propensity for physical activity. Take your Dog on a leashed walk every day for at least an hour.
If it has a pug-like coat, brush it at least twice weekly; if it has a longer coat, brush it more frequently, perhaps three or four times weekly.
You are responsible for maintaining cleanliness and the sheen of your Dog’s coat because they are energetic dogs who play all day.
Your Hug dog should continue to socialize throughout life; therefore, you should make arrangements to facilitate further meetings between it and other dogs and people.
Ask your friends and neighbors to occasionally bring their dogs to your place, especially those who own dogs. It is advisable to feed this energetic breed of Dog highly nourishing dog food.
