This list includes 17 Dog breeds that start with K, from “Kai Ken” to “Kuvasz”. These breeds include small companions, herding dogs, large guardians, and versatile working types. Many show strong regional identities and distinctive coat types. They are commonly used as companions, working dogs, guardians, or show competitors.
Dog breeds that start with K are established canine types whose breed names begin with the letter K. Several, like the Kuvasz and Kai Ken, have centuries-old working histories in Hungary and Japan respectively.
Below you’ll find the table with Origin, Size category, and Temperament.
Origin: Shows the breed’s geographic roots and helps you understand historical roles and climate adaptations when choosing a dog.
Size category: Gives a quick idea of adult size so you can judge space needs, exercise levels, and suitability for your home.
Temperament: Summarizes common personality traits in a few words to help you match a breed to your lifestyle and family.
Dog breeds that start with K
| Breed | Scientific name | Origin | Size | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kangal | Canis lupus familiaris | Turkey | Large | Protective, calm, independent, loyal; renowned livestock guardian with strong protective instincts and powerful build. |
| Keeshond | Canis lupus familiaris | Netherlands | Medium | Friendly, alert, outgoing, intelligent; cheerful companion and watchdog known for a thick, fox-like mane and people-oriented nature. |
| Kelpie | Canis lupus familiaris | Australia | Medium | Energetic, intelligent, trainable, hardworking; versatile herding dog prized for stamina, agility, and a strong work drive on farms. |
| Kerry Blue Terrier | Canis lupus familiaris | Ireland | Medium | Spirited, affectionate, intelligent, feisty; versatile terrier noted for its soft blue coat and lively, bold temperament. |
| Kerry Beagle | Canis lupus familiaris | Ireland | Medium | Tenacious, friendly, independent, energetic; compact scent hound used for hunting with a keen nose and strong pack instincts. |
| King Charles Spaniel | Canis lupus familiaris | United Kingdom | Small | Affectionate, gentle, calm, sociable; small royal toy spaniel prized for companionable nature and expressive, domed face. |
| Komondor | Canis lupus familiaris | Hungary | Large | Protective, independent, loyal, calm; iconic corded-coat livestock guardian known for size, strength, and quiet watchfulness. |
| Kuvasz | Canis lupus familiaris | Hungary | Large | Loyal, brave, independent, reserved; traditional royal and livestock guardian with a white coat and strong protective instincts. |
| Kooikerhondje | Canis lupus familiaris | Netherlands | Small | Cheerful, alert, friendly, agile; Dutch working spaniel originally used to lure waterfowl, small sporting dog with orange-and-white coat. |
| Kromfohrländer | Canis lupus familiaris | Germany | Small | Affectionate, alert, playful, sensitive; companionable German breed valued for a friendly temperament and adaptable family skills. |
| Kai Ken | Canis lupus familiaris | Japan | Medium | Loyal, reserved, intelligent, agile; rare Japanese hunting dog noted for a brindle coat and strong scenting and chasing instincts. |
| Kishu Ken | Canis lupus familiaris | Japan | Medium | Reserved, loyal, courageous, independent; Japanese hunting breed developed for boar and deer, compact and devoted to family. |
| Korean Jindo | Canis lupus familiaris | South Korea | Medium | Loyal, alert, aloof with strangers, courageous; national hunting and guardian breed prized for devotion and a clean, fox-like appearance. |
| Karelian Bear Dog | Canis lupus familiaris | Finland | Medium | Fearless, bold, independent, tenacious; Finnish hunting dog known for tracking large game and notable courage against bears. |
| Karakachan Dog | Canis lupus familiaris | Bulgaria | Large | Protective, independent, territorial, devoted; traditional Bulgarian livestock guardian with strong guarding instincts and a rugged build. |
| Karst Shepherd | Canis lupus familiaris | Slovenia | Large | Loyal, strong-willed, protective, hardworking; regional shepherd dog used for flock protection in karst terrain, robust and alert. |
| Kintamani | Canis lupus familiaris | Indonesia | Medium | Alert, independent, affectionate, energetic; Balinese mountain dog used as watch and companion with upright carriage and hardy nature. |