Finding the right dog breed can feel overwhelming, especially when you want to understand a breed’s traits, energy level, and family fit. This guide focuses on dog breeds starting with S, will help you compare popular dog breeds, identify herding dogs, terriers, hounds, and more—so you can find the perfect match for your family.
Small Dog Breeds That Start with S
Small dogs are great for apartments or city living, but many still need daily exercise and training. These breeds may be small, but they have big personalities and unique traits developed over centuries.
Shih Tzu
Group: Toy Group
Height: 9–10.5 inches
Weight: 9–16 pounds
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 10–18 years
Colors: Gold, white, black, brindle, liver, blue, and mixes
Shedding: Low; long haired coat requires brushing
Barking: Low to moderate
Physical Characteristics: Round head, short muzzle, flowing double coat
Health Notes: Eye problems, dental issues, breathing concerns due to short muzzle
History: The Shih Tzu was originally bred in China as a palace lapdog for royalty. They were loved for their sweet, affectionate nature and elegant coats. Today, they remain one of the most popular dog breeds for families and seniors in the US.
Shiba Inu
Group: Non-Sporting Group
Height: 13.5–16.5 inches
Weight: 17–23 pounds
Energy Level: Moderate to high
Lifespan: 12–16 years
Colors: Red, sesame, cream, black and tan
Shedding: Moderate to heavy; double-coated
Barking: Low, but known for the “Shiba scream” when excited
Physical Characteristics: Fox-like face, curled tail, thick coat
Health Notes: Allergies, glaucoma, knee issues
History: The Shiba Inu is one of Japan’s oldest native dog breeds, used for hunting small game. Their independent spirit comes from working rugged mountain terrain. Today, Shibas are known for being smart, bold, and clean—often compared to cats in behavior.
Scottish Terrier
Group: Terrier Group
Height: 10 inches
Weight: 18–22 pounds
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Colors: Black, brindle, wheaten
Shedding: Low
Barking: Moderate to high
Physical Characteristics: Distinctive beard, wiry coat, short legs
Health Notes: Von Willebrand’s disease, cancer, allergies
History: The Scottish Terrier, or “Scottie,” is a bold terrier once used for chasing foxes and badgers. Their strong instincts and sturdy build made them excellent working dogs. Known historically as a ghost hunter, Scotties were believed to protect homes from evil spirits in folklore.
Sealyham Terrier
Group: Terrier Group
Height: 10.5 inches
Weight: 22–24 pounds
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Colors: White, sometimes with markings
Shedding: Low
Barking: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Muscular, long body, thick coat
Health Notes: Eye issues, deafness
History: A rare breed today, the Sealyham Terrier was developed in Wales for badger hunting. Their bravery and confident temperament make them wonderful companions for active families.
Skye Terrier
Group: Terrier Group
Height: 9–10 inches (with long body length)
Weight: 35–45 pounds (heavier than most small dogs)
Energy Level: Low to moderate
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Colors: Black, grey, silver, fawn
Shedding: Moderate
Barking: Low
Physical Characteristics: Long, floor-length coat; drop or prick ears
Health Notes: Back issues due to long body
History: This elegant long haired terrier guarded farms and drove off vermin. Skye Terriers were popular in the 1800s and were companions to royalty, including Queen Victoria.
Medium Dog Breeds That Start with S
Medium breeds often fit many American households because they balance energy and size well. They also excel in dog sports, obedience, and working roles.
Shetland Sheepdog
Group: Herding Group
Height: 13–16 inches
Weight: 15–25 pounds
Energy Level: High
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Colors: Sable, black, blue merle
Shedding: Heavy
Barking: High
Physical Characteristics: Long coat, wedge-shaped head, expressive eyes
Health Notes: Collie eye anomaly, thyroid issues
History: The Shetland Sheepdog is a small shepherd dog from Scotland, bred to herd sheep and cattle on the Shetland Islands. Their sharp intelligence and agility make them top performers in agility and obedience trials.
Springer Spaniel (English Springer Spaniel)
Group: Sporting Group
Height: 19–20 inches
Weight: 40–50 pounds
Energy Level: High
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Colors: Liver and white, black and white, tricolor
Shedding: Moderate
Barking: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Feathery ears, athletic build
Health Notes: Ear infections, hip dysplasia
History: The Springer Spaniel was originally bred to “spring” birds from bushes during hunts. Today, they are popular family dogs because they are friendly, affectionate, and eager to please.
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Group: Terrier Group
Height: 14–16 inches
Weight: 24–38 pounds
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Colors: Many, including black, blue, brindle
Shedding: Low
Barking: Low
Physical Characteristics: Muscular body, strong jaw, short coat
Health Notes: Hip dysplasia, cataracts
History: The Staffordshire Bull Terrier was developed in England from bull terrier lines. Though strong and athletic, Staffies are famously sweet with children and often called “nanny dogs.”
Large and Giant Dog Breeds That Start with S
These breeds require more space, training, and careful management because of their size. Many have deep working histories linked to guarding or pulling.
Siberian Husky
Group: Working Group
Height: 20–24 inches
Weight: 35–60 pounds
Energy Level: Very high
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Colors: Black, white, gray, red, sable
Shedding: Heavy
Barking: Low; howls more than barks
Physical Characteristics: Almond eyes, erect ears, curled tail
Health Notes: Eye disease, hip issues
History: Huskies were originally bred by the Chukchi people as sled dogs. Their endurance helped humans survive harsh climates. Their independent nature today reflects their working background.
Samoyed
Group: Working Group
Height: 19–23.5 inches
Weight: 35–65 pounds
Energy Level: High
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Colors: White, cream
Shedding: Very heavy
Barking: Moderate to high
Physical Characteristics: Smile-like expression, thick coat
Health Notes: Hip dysplasia, heart issues
History: The Samoyed herded reindeer and pulled sleds for the Samoyede people. Their “Smiling Sammy” expression prevented frost from forming on their face during work.
Saint Bernard
Group: Working Group
Height: 26–30 inches
Weight: 120–180 pounds
Energy Level: Moderate
Lifespan: 8–10 years
Colors: Red and white, brindle
Shedding: Moderate
Barking: Low
Physical Characteristics: Massive build, kind eyes
Health Notes: Bloat, hip dysplasia
History: These gentle giants worked as rescue dogs in the Swiss Alps. Their strength allowed them to pull stranded travelers to safety.
Spanish Mastiff
Group: Working Group
Height: 28–35 inches
Weight: 140–200+ pounds
Energy Level: Low to moderate
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Colors: Fawn, red, brindle, black
Shedding: Moderate
Barking: Low
Physical Characteristics: Strong, muscular guardian
Health Notes: Joint issues due to size
History: A guardian of livestock for centuries, the Spanish Mastiff protected flocks from wolves. They remain calm, independent protectors today.
Training, Exercise, and Care Needs of S Breeds
Many dog breeds starting with S have deep working roots. Most were originally bred for hunting, herding cattle, pulling sleds, or guarding families, which is why they still have strong instincts today. Understanding each breed’s exercise and care needs helps dog owners avoid behavior issues and build a healthy routine.
High-Energy Breeds
Some S breeds—like the Siberian Husky, Springer Spaniel, Border Collie, and Shetland Sheepdog—need daily physical activity. They were bred for demanding jobs, such as sled pulling or herding cattle. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recommends at least 1–2 hours of daily exercise for high-energy dogs. These dogs also enjoy dog sports like agility and tracking, which help sharpen their natural intelligence.
Moderate-Energy Breeds
Medium-sized dogs such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Scottish Terrier, and Skye Terrier need regular walks and mental enrichment but don’t require the intense workouts of herding dogs. They adapt well to families, apartments, and suburban living.
Low-Energy Companion Breeds
Breeds like the Shih Tzu were bred for companionship and palace life, not labor. They are great for seniors, families with young kids, or people wanting a calm indoor pet. However, they still need daily walks to stay healthy.
How to Choose the Right S Breed for Your Family
Great family dogs tend to be gentle, patient, and loyal.
Top picks:
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Shetland Sheepdog – Smart, trainable, and protective.
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Springer Spaniel – Playful and affectionate.
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Saint Bernard – Very gentle with children.
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Shih Tzu – Small, loving, and easygoing.
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Scottish Terrier – Loyal, alert, and good for calm households.
The CDC encourages teaching children safe dog-handling habits to prevent bites and ensure positive interactions.
Best S Breeds for Active Adults & Outdoor Lovers
These dogs thrive on adventure, hiking, and agility training.
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Siberian Husky – Built for running and endurance.
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Samoyed – Energetic and loves cold-weather activities.
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Swedish Elkhound – Excellent hunting and tracking dog.
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Saluki – One of the fastest hounds in the world.
These breeds are highly intelligent and need physical and mental stimulation daily.
Best S Breeds for Apartment or City Living
These dogs adapt well to smaller homes when given proper walks and enrichment.
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Shih Tzu
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Skye Terrier
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Sealyham Terrier
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Schipperke
Even small dogs need exercise, but their compact size makes them easier for apartment dwellers to manage.
Low-Shedding or Allergy-Friendly S Breeds
No dog is fully hypoallergenic, but some shed less:
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Standard Schnauzer
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Miniature Schnauzer
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Skye Terrier (moderate shedding)
People with allergies should discuss pet exposure with a healthcare provider.
FAQs
What type of dog starts with an S?
Many types of dogs beginning with S include working dogs, terriers, hounds, and herding dogs. Popular examples are the Siberian Husky, Shih Tzu, Shetland Sheepdog, Scottish Terrier, Springer Spaniel, and Saint Bernard. These dog breeds vary in size, temperament, and energy level.
What is a dog name that starts with S?
Common dog names beginning with S include: Shadow, Scout, Sasha, Sunny, Skye, Storm. These names are popular because they fit many family dogs, from energetic Huskies to sweet Shih Tzus.
What is the top 10 rarest dog?
Some rare breeds (worldwide and in the US) include: Sealyham Terrier, Skye Terrier, Sussex Spaniel, Otterhound, Norwegian Lundehund, Azawakh, Thai Ridgeback, Canaan Dog, Bracco Italiano, Chinook. Many of these breeds have low population numbers today and some were once close to extinct.
What are Shiloh Shepherds a mix of?
The Shiloh Shepherd is a hybrid dog developed in the late 1900s. They are a cross between: German Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute, And sometimes other shepherd dogs for improved temperament. Breeders aimed to create a larger, calmer, more family-friendly version of the German Shepherd, with strong intelligence, loyalty, and protective instincts.
Conclusion
Choosing the right dog is easier when you understand each breed’s size, energy level, history, and daily needs. The dog breeds that start with the letter S offer something for everyone—whether you want a small lap dog like the Shih Tzu, an intelligent worker like the Shetland Sheepdog, or a powerful guardian like the Spanish Mastiff. Each breed has its own unique traits, grooming needs, and personality, so taking time to learn about them helps you make a confident and responsible choice.
