This list includes 12 Dog breeds that start with L, from “Labrador Retriever” to “Lundehund”. Many of these breeds are working and companion dogs, ranging from sturdy retrievers to small, agile hunting types.

Dog breeds that start with L are established breeds and regional varieties whose names begin with the letter L. Many have famous roles, like the Labrador Retriever’s global popularity and the Lundehund’s unique Nordic hunting history.

Below you’ll find the table with origin, size category, temperament.

Origin: The country or region where the breed developed, so you understand its cultural background and historical purpose.

Size category: Practical size grouping (toy to giant) that helps you gauge living space and exercise needs for each breed.

Temperament: A concise list of typical traits, helping you assess compatibility with family, training, and activity levels.

Dog breeds that start with L

BreedScientific nameOriginSize & Temperament
Labrador RetrieverCanis lupus familiarisNewfoundland, CanadaLarge; 25–36 kg / 55–79 lb; 55–62 cm / 22–24 in; friendly, outgoing, intelligent
Lagotto RomagnoloCanis lupus familiarisRomagna, ItalyMedium; 11–16 kg / 24–35 lb; 41–48 cm / 16–19 in; affectionate, energetic, keen
LaekenoisCanis lupus familiarisBelgiumLarge; 24–30 kg / 53–66 lb; 60–66 cm / 24–26 in; alert, protective, loyal
Lakeland TerrierCanis lupus familiarisLake District, EnglandSmall; 6–8 kg / 13–18 lb; 35–38 cm / 14–15 in; spirited, bold, affectionate
Lancashire HeelerCanis lupus familiarisLancashire, EnglandSmall; 5–8 kg / 11–18 lb; 25–30 cm / 10–12 in; bold, friendly, alert
LandseerCanis lupus familiarisNewfoundland / EuropeLarge; 45–60 kg / 99–132 lb; 66–80 cm / 26–31 in; gentle, calm, strong
Large MunsterlanderCanis lupus familiarisGermanyLarge; 25–40 kg / 55–88 lb; 58–66 cm / 23–26 in; versatile, friendly, trainable
Lapponian HerderCanis lupus familiarisLapland (Finland/Sweden)Medium; 17–25 kg / 37–55 lb; 44–52 cm / 17–21 in; independent, hardworking, loyal
Lhasa ApsoCanis lupus familiarisTibetSmall; 5–8 kg / 11–18 lb; 25–28 cm / 10–11 in; alert, independent, confident
LeonbergerCanis lupus familiarisGermanyGiant; 45–77 kg / 99–170 lb; 65–80 cm / 26–31 in; gentle, calm, courageous
LowchenCanis lupus familiarisFrance/Germany (historic)Small; 5–8 kg / 11–18 lb; 25–33 cm / 10–13 in; affectionate, playful, proud
LundehundCanis lupus familiarisNorwaySmall; 5–7 kg / 11–15 lb; 30–38 cm / 12–15 in; nimble, independent, alert

Descriptions

Labrador Retriever
Stocky, short-coated water dog bred for retrieving. Popular family companion and working retriever; eager-to-please, good swimmer, highly trainable.
Lagotto Romagnolo
Curly-coated Italian dog originally used for water work, now prized as a truffle hunter. Compact, rustic look and intense scent drive.
Laekenois
Rough-coated Belgian sheepdog type historically used for herding and guarding. Brindled coat, square build, devoted watchdog and family guardian.
Lakeland Terrier
Small, wiry terrier bred for ratting and otter hunting in the fells. Compact, weather-resistant coat; lively, tenacious companion.
Lancashire Heeler
Small herding and farm dog used for cattle and vermin. Short-coated, sturdy, eager, and surprisingly confident for size.
Landseer
Black-and-white Newfoundland-type bred for water rescue and draft; graceful, powerful swimmer and family-friendly guardian.
Large Munsterlander
German gundog for flushing and pointing; tricolour, athletic and steady in the field, also affectionate with family.
Lapponian Herder
Nordic herding dog used for reindeer work; weather-resistant coat, agile and focused, thrives with purposeful tasks.
Lhasa Apso
Long-coated companion and sentinel from Tibetan monasteries. Distinctive mane-like coat, lively personality, and protective nature.
Leonberger
Massive, lion-like working dog bred as a companion and draft/guard dog. Thick double coat, noble bearing, devoted family guardian.
Lowchen
Small companion known as “little lion dog” with flowing coat and jaunty gait. Friendly, lively, ideal lap and show dog.
Lundehund
Unique puffin-hunting Norwegian breed with flexible joints and extra toes. Small, hardy, curious and specialized hunting heritage.
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