How Dog Breeds Get Their Names (Plus, the Most Popular Dog Names of the Year)

In this episode, we scour through the archives for irresistible stories behind breed names.

Breed names are a vital tool for classifying our canine companions, yet it’s the individuals, the Lunas and Maxs, the Rovers, Spots, and Fidos who breathe meaning into who these breeds become in our lives. Many breeds acquired their names from the prey they hunted, the location in which they were discovered, or by inheriting the names of the people who developed or fancied them. The names we give dogs highlight times, places, and people in every chapter of the human story. Dogs accompanied our earliest ancestors and will undoubtedly be there to guide our descendants.

Bonafide Bits:

• Huskies were not named for their strong, hefty physiques or sled-pulling abilities.
• Elvis, a beagle, sniffs polar bear poop at zoos to detect pregnancies.
• There is no such breed as a “French” Poodle, as Poodles were originally developed in Germany.
• A heart-wrenching story of Abraham Lincoln’s dog popularized the name Fido.
• Luna and Max top the AKC’s list of most popular dog names for 2022.

Featured Breeds:

Cairn Terriers

Cairn Terriers are happy, busy little earth dogs originally bred to fearlessly root out foxes and other small, furred prey in the rocky Scottish countryside. Curious and alert, Cairns like having a place where they can explore and dig. The Cairn’s unique qualities, called “Cairnishness,” include a short, wide head and a free-moving, short-legged body that exudes strength but not heaviness, topping out at about 10 inches high and about 15 inches long. The double coat is harsh and wiry on top and downy beneath. A Cairn presents as a small, shaggy, alert dog, with head, tail, and ears up, and eyes shining with intelligence. A British breed club promotes Cairns as the “best little pal in the world.” Cairns are small enough for a laptop snuggle and sturdy enough for a good romp on the lawn. They do best with lots of close family contact. For owners who cherish the terrier qualities of gameness, independent thinking, and true-blue loyalty, no other breed will do. Discover more about Cairn Terriers at AKC’s Cairn Terrier Breed Biography.

Siberian Husky

The graceful, medium-sized Siberian Husky’s almond-shaped eyes can be either brown or blue and sometimes one of each, and convey a keen but amiable, and even mischievous expression. Quick and nimble-footed, Siberians are known for their powerful but seemingly effortless gait. Tipping the scales at no more than 60 pounds, they are noticeably smaller and lighter than their burly cousin, the Alaskan Malamute. As born pack dogs, they enjoy family life and get on well with other dogs. The Sibes’ innate friendliness renders them indifferent watchdogs. These are energetic dogs who can’t resist chasing small animals, so secure room to run is a must. An attractive feature of the breed: Sibes are naturally clean, with little doggy odor. Discover more about Siberian Huskies at AKC’s Siberian Husky Breed Biography.

Beagle

Not only is the Beagle an excellent hunting dog and loyal companion, but it is also happy-go-lucky, funny, and — thanks to its pleading expression — cute. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they enjoy company and are generally easygoing. Discover more about Beagles at AKC’s Beagle Breed Biography.

Scottish Deerhound

Stand back: You need a little distance to fully appreciate the majesty of this ancient beast. In silhouette we see a noble coursing hound struck from the classic Greyhound template. Deerhounds are, though, much larger and more substantial than Greyhounds; a good-sized male can stand 32 inches at the shoulder and weigh 110 pounds. The crisp coat is seen in several colors; breed aficionados prefer the dark blue-gray coat. The tapered head and long neck add extra lift to an already stately hound. Discover more about Scottish Deerhounds at AKC’s Scottish Deerhound Breed Biography.

American Foxhound

American Foxhounds are good-natured, low-maintenance hounds who get on well with kids, dogs, and even cats, but come with special considerations for prospective owners. They are closely associated with Revolutionary heroes and the rolling estates of old Virginia. Discover more about American Foxhounds at AKC’s American Foxhound Breed Biography.

Otterhound

Big, boisterous, and affectionate, the Otterhound was bred in medieval England for the now-outlawed activity of otter hunting. This scarce breed is known for its dense shaggy coat, webbed feet, an acute sense of smell, and affinity for swimming. Discover more about Otterhounds at AKC’s Otterhound Breed Biography.

Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is a robust spitz type known for his lush silver-gray coat and dignified but friendly demeanor. The durable Elkhound is among Europe's oldest dogs. They sailed with the Vikings and figured in Norse art and legend. Norwegian Elkhounds are hardy, short-bodied dogs standing about 20 inches at the shoulder. They have a dense silver-gray coat and a tail curling tightly over the back. The deep chest, sturdy legs, and muscular thighs belong to a dog built for an honest day's work. The eyes are a dark brown and the ears are mobile and erect. Overall, an Elkhound is the picture of an alert and steadfast dog of the north. Elkhounds are famously fine companions and intelligent watchdogs. Agility and herding trials are good outlets for their natural athleticism and eagerness. Reserved until introductions are made, an Elkhound is a trustworthy friend ever after. These strong, confident dogs are truly sensitive souls, with a dash of houndy independence. Discover more about Norwegian Elkhound at AKC’s Norwegian Elkhound Breed Biography.

Cocker Spaniel

The merry and frolicsome Cocker Spaniel, with his big, dreamy eyes and impish personality, is one of the world’s best-loved breeds. They were developed as hunting dogs, but Cockers gained wide popularity as all-around companions. Discover more about Cocker Spaniels at AKC’s Cocker Spaniel Breed Biography.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Big, powerful, and built for hard work, the Bernese Mountain Dog is also strikingly beautiful and blessed with a sweet, affectionate nature. Berners are generally placid but are always up for a romp with the owner, whom they live to please. The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, sturdy worker who can stand over 27 inches at the shoulder. The thick, silky, and moderately long coat is tricolored: jet black, clear white, and rust. The distinctive markings on the coat and face are breed hallmarks and, combined with the intelligent gleam in the dark eyes, add to the Berner's aura of majestic nobility. A hardy dog who thrives in cold weather, the Berner's brain and brawn helped him multitask on the farms and pastures of Switzerland. Berners get along with the entire family and are particularly gentle with children, but they will often become more attached to one lucky human. Berners are imposing but not threatening, and they maintain an aloof dignity with strangers. Discover more about Bernese Mountain Dogs at AKC’s Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Biography.

Portuguese Water Dog

The bright and biddable Portuguese Water Dog was bred to be an all-around fisherman’s helper. The robust, medium-sized body is covered by a coat of tight, low-shedding curls. They are eager and athletic companions built for water work. Discover more about Portuguese Water Dogs at AKC’s Portuguese Water Dog Breed Biography.

Sealyham Terrier

The Sealyham Terrier is brave and spirited, but not as spiky as smaller terriers. These sturdy, outgoing companions are recognized by their “fall,” the mass of hair covering the forehead. Sealy fans enjoy their dog's sly sense of humor. Standing less than 11 inches at the shoulder and weighing about 24 pounds, Sealys are not big enough to be considered medium-sized dogs, but they stand among the strongest and most substantial of what we think of as small dogs. A typical Sealy is well-muscled, built low to the ground, and moves easily with long, determined strides. The weatherproof coat is predominantly white, and a long, broad head is furnished with lavish facial hair. Despite their rep as the bruiser among short-legged terriers, Sealys are cute, funny, affectionate, outgoing, and trainable, if a bit stubborn. Their alertness and a big-dog bark make Sealys excellent watchdogs. Blessed with an adaptable nature, Sealys are amenable to city dwellings or country life. Discover more about Sealyham Terriers at AKC’s Sealyham Terrier Breed Biography.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

From his brawling past, the muscular but agile Staffordshire Bull Terrier retains the traits of courage and tenacity. Happily, good breeding transformed this former gladiator into a mild, playful companion with a special feel for kids. Discover more about Staffordshire Bull Terriers at AKC’s Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Biography.

Berger Picard

The Berger Picard is a lanky herding dog of strong bone and sturdy build. Picards spent centuries as take-charge independent problem-solvers, so early socialization and positive training are necessary to cope with their stubborn streak. Discover more about Berger Picards at AKC’s Berger Picard Breed Biography.

Czechoslovakian Vlcak

An alert, primitive canine that resembles a wolf in appearance. They are highly intelligent, powerful, active, loyal, and devoted to their owner. They have superior eyesight, hearing, and sense of smell and are known for having excellent stamina and endurance. The Czechoslovakian Vlcak (CSV) was originally bred for working border patrol in Czechoslovakia in the 1950s. They are currently used in Europe and the United States for search and rescue, tracking, obedience, agility, drafting, herding, and working dog sports. The CSV is bred for versatility and hardiness in harsh elements and is much more independent in nature than many other working breeds. They are an excellent choice for tracking or trailing sport/work or as a companion for active owners who enjoy spending time doing outdoor activities such as biking, running, or hiking. They are not, however, recommended for first-time owners. Discover more about Czechoslovakian Vlcaks at AKC’s Czechoslovakian Vlcak Breed Biography.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an all-purpose “Renaissance hound” whose hallmark is the ridge, or stripe of backward-growing hair, on his back. Though the breed was made famous in its native Africa for its skill at tracking and baying, but never, ever killing, lions, today Ridgebacks are cherished family dogs whose owners must be prepared to deal with their independence and strong prey drive. Discover more about Rhodesian Ridgebacks at AKC’s Rhodesian Ridgeback Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Poodle

Forget those old stereotypes of Poodles as sissy dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart “real dogs” of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success. Discover more about Poodles at AKC’s Poodle (Standard) Breed Biography.

Affenpinscher

The Affen’s apish look has been described in many ways. They’ve been called “monkey dogs” and “ape terriers.” The French say diablotin moustachu (“mustached little devil”), and Star Wars fans argue whether they look more like Wookies or Ewoks. Standing less than a foot tall, these sturdy terrier-like dogs approach life with great confidence. “This isn’t a breed you train,” a professional dog handler tells us, “He's like a human. You befriend him.” The dense, harsh coat is described as “neat but shaggy” and comes in several colors; the gait is light and confident. They can be willful and domineering, but mostly Affens are loyal, affectionate, and always entertaining. Affen people say they love being owned by their little monkey dogs. Discover more about Affenpinschers at AKC’s Affenpinscher Breed Biography.

Peruvian Inca Orchid

Agile, smart, and swift, the Peruvian Inca Orchid is an elegant sighthound that developed in Peru. The breed can be hairless or coated and comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large. Lively and alert, these dogs can be very good hunters and do well in lure coursing, rally, and agility. In the hairless variety, the skin can be of any color. In the coated variety, all colors are accepted including black, brown, gray, pink, tan, and white. Discover more about Peruvian Inca Orchids at AKC’s Peruvian Inca Orchid Breed Biography.

Yorkshire Terrier

Beneath the dainty, glossy, floor-length coat of a Yorkshire Terrier beats the heart of a feisty, old-time terrier. Yorkies earned their living as ratters in mines and mills long before they became the beribboned lapdogs of Victorian ladies. Discover more about Yorkshire Terriers at AKC’s Yorkshire Terrier Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• Of all the 200 AKC-recognized breeds, more than half are named to reference the place they were first noticed by Europeans or North Americans.
• Several dogs still retain the name of a country that no longer exists such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Czechoslovakian Vlcak.
• The AKC recently published the top dog names for 2022 and they are Luna (female) and Max (male).