This list includes 4 Dog breeds that start with O, from “Old English Sheepdog” to “Otterhound”. These breeds show varied looks and sizes, from large, shaggy herders to robust scent hounds. People commonly keep them as family companions, working dogs, or hunting partners.

Dog breeds that start with O are established breeds whose names begin with the letter O. Many have strong regional histories, like the Otterhound’s use in British otter hunting and waterways.

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

Origin: Shows each breed’s country or region of origin, so you can judge historical traits and care needs.

Size category: Gives a quick class (toy, small, medium, large, giant) so you can gauge space and exercise needs.

Temperament: Lists two to four concise traits to help you predict compatibility and typical behavior in the home.

Dog breeds that start with O

NameScientific nameOriginSize
Old English SheepdogCanis lupus familiarisEnglandLarge 25–45 kg / 55–99 lb
OtterhoundCanis lupus familiarisEnglandLarge 30–45 kg / 66–99 lb
Olde English BulldoggeCanis lupus familiarisUnited StatesMedium 25–40 kg / 55–88 lb
Old German Shepherd DogCanis lupus familiarisGermanyLarge 30–40 kg / 66–88 lb

Descriptions

Old English Sheepdog
A shaggy herding dog from England; affectionate, intelligent, sociable, and playful; notable for its profuse, shaggy coat that often hides the eyes and its historic sheep‑working role.
Otterhound
A rough‑coated scent hound from England; friendly, merry, independent, and tenacious; notable for webbed feet and a history as an otter‑hunting specialist.
Olde English Bulldogge
A modern recreation of the historic English bulldog developed in the United States; loyal, courageous, affectionate, and energetic; notable for a healthier, more athletic build than contemporary bulldog types.
Old German Shepherd Dog
A traditional German shepherd type preserved from early working lines; loyal, confident, steady, and work‑oriented; notable for a more balanced structure and robust working ability than some modern show lines.
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