American Dogs: 10 All-American Breeds to Know About

What’s more American than a family and their dog? And what dog is more American than the breed that is often rated as the U.S.A’s most popular breed, the Labrador Retriever? Surprise! There are actually plenty of breeds more American than the Labrador. Check out 10 American dog breeds below.

America and dogs, go hand in hand, or rather hand in paw. Dogs are as American as apple pie or landing on the moon, or an apple pie landing on the moon. However, you might be surprised to learn that many breeds traditionally thought of as American, actually find their origins elsewhere. When picturing “America’s Dog” many people imagine a family lavishing love on their Labrador.

While Labrador Retrievers are often voted as America’s most popular breed, they actually find their origins in Canada. Much like Thanksgiving, the Labrador is a fully embraced part of American culture but finds its roots in Canadian history. Thanksgiving was first celebrated by English explorer Martin Frobisher in Newfoundland and Labrador Retrievers originate from Labrador Canada. These two territories make up the most northeastern province of Canada.

While many of America’s most popular breeds have their origins elsewhere, we still have plenty of full blooded American breeds to be proud of. These pups have been developed on American soil, and are bone-ified pawtriots through and through.

1. Alaskan Malamute

Some of the heartiest, hardest, and fluffiest workers around, Alaskan Malamutes have trudged across the arctic expanse of Alaska for centuries. Originally bred to heft heavy freight across Alaska, these powerful pooches now occupy a typically less demanding position of family companion.

2. American Bulldog

Much like America itself, the American Bulldog comes from British transplants. They have a fighting spirit and are up to any task. Originally adapted to work on farms, these athletic, muscular pups are friendly, smart and loyal. They embody some of the best qualities America has to offer!

3. American Water Spaniel

Wisconsin’s state dog, the American Water Spaniel is a charming and capable gun dog. This rare breed is a perfect balance of athletic prowess and keen intelligence. Their water resistant coat and webbed feet are suited to swimming the frigid waters of the north when flushing and retrieving waterfowl.

4. Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog

It’s no surprise that Louisiana’s state dog is one with a fiery personality and a ton of grit. The Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog was originally bred to track and hunt wild Boar. They are highly intelligent and bursting with energy. With a traditionally dappled merle coat, the Catahoula shows off the beauty that America has to offer.

5. American Eskimo Dog

Pulling from many different Spitz types around the globe, the American Eskimo Dog is an American amalgamation of awesome! These perfect little white fluffs are exuberant, energy-filled pups with a dense pillowy cloud of fur. They came about in a rush of patriotism during the early 20th century when dog lovers were looking for a way to embrace the European Spitz breeds they loved without betraying their country. Dog lovers didn’t want to walk around with a dog called a “German Spitz” while fighting Nazis. So, breeders set about Americanizing this magnificent variety of dogs. Thus the American Eskimo dog was born!

6. American Staffordshire Terrier

Adored by Americans for over a century, the American Staffordshire Terrier is a true patriot. There are countless Amstaff’s among the heroes of the American dog world. Among them is Bud, an Amstaff who was a member of the first full cross country road trip of the continental U.S. Another Amstaff named Sergeant Stubby was one of America’s most decorated war dogs, beloved by several presidents and an undeniable hero. This muscular breed has a powerful body and a heart of gold!

7. Boston Terrier

The official state dog of Massachusetts, the Boston Terrier, also known as the American Gentleman, is a true representative of the U.S.A. These handsome tuxedo adorned pups put out an affable vibe.  They are sharp witted, and friendly with a sense of humor. The Boston Terrier has strong well documented roots and brings out plenty of pride from their namesake town.

8. Rat Terrier

A true American breed, the Rat Terrier is as game as they come. While their name communicates a large part of their job, it doesn’t begin to illuminate how vastly competent these tiny terriers are. While they are more than capable of terrorizing rodents, they have filled a variety of other roles in American households. Rat Terriers are adorable companions who love to hunt, guard, and play. Sturdy, smart and versatile, these pooches can do it all!

9. Chesapeake Bay Retriever

One of the most American breeds, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever was bred for retrieving waterfowl in the frigid waters of their namesake estuary. They are powerful, tireless, intelligent and perfectly adapted to their jobs. These pooches also know how to bring the love, with their joyful nature and toothy smiles.

10. Australian Shepherds

Despite their name, the Australian Shepherd is as American as they come. Although a portion of the breed’s development was completed in the Outback, the Aussie Shepherd came to prominence as a herding dog in sunny California. Their quick wit and athletic ability made them a mainstay in cowboy culture in the 19th century. Adaptable and intelligent, the Australian Shepherd has taken on plenty more roles in American society, as a working dog, therapy dog and performer in rodeos.

Did you know that these 10 American dogs all originated in the United States? Let us know in the comments!