Dogs are very popular for many reasons, but one of the key incentives would probably be their unconditional love and loyalty to humans. A dog is a perfect companion to stay by your side during tough times. If you’re looking for a loyal friend, this might be the perfect place for you!
This post aims to share information about the letter H dog breeds with you. We will go through the different breeds starting with the letter H.
Dog breeds that start with H can be hard to find if you're unsure where to look. After a lot of research, we put together this post all about canine breeds that start with the letter H, and hope it will help you find your perfect dog!
1. Havanese
A Havanese is a loving and gentle H dog breed. They’re easy to train and don't shed much. Havanese originated in the town of Havana, Cuba. In the mid-19th century, American sailors and soldiers stationed in Key West brought the French poodle, a small dog breed originally developed to track rabbits and other small animals.
The Havanese was created by crossing this French Poodle with several other breeds including the Spanish Water Dog and various Siamese dogs. The Havanese are directly related to the Portuguese Water Dog.
Their temperament is one of dog breeds' most gentle, sweet, and patient. They have a love for people that is unmatched. Havanese dogs are often called "velcro" dogs because they attach themselves to one person in a family and will follow them everywhere.
Breed Stats
- Group: Toy
- Height: 8-11 inches
- Weight: 7-13 pounds
- Energy Level: Active
- Physical Characteristics: Long coats, furry, high tail
- Lifespan: 14-16 years
- Color: Black, Brown, Fawn, Gray, Blue, White
- Shedding: Occasional
- Bark: Normal
2. Husky
The husky is a large and furry Arctic canine that loves people of all ages. Huskies have also been used as sled dogs for centuries due to their strength and endurance.
The Husky is an athletic dog with an endurance that can keep up with the most active owner. This sled dog has a thick and powerful coat to protect him in harsh weather conditions.
The Husky was bred for these cold and harsh conditions as well as the ability to pull heavy loads over long distances. Because of their stamina, Huskies can work all day and require lots of exercise, but they do not need a lot of mental stimulation because they are independent thinkers who are content to spend time alone.
They prefer to do things on their own rather than work as part of a team. They are great escape artists who will go over or under fences in search of adventure.
Breed Stats
- Group: Working
- Height: 20-23 inches
- Weight: 35-60 pounds
- Energy Level: Active
- Physical Characteristics: Almond-shaped bright eyes, elongated snout, alert expression
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Color: White, Grey, Black, Red
- Shedding: Normal
- Bark: High
3. Hungarian Vizsla
The Vizsla is a kind, intelligent, and gentle dog. They are friendly and playful dogs. They enjoy spending time with their loved ones and can cope with most types of habitation. Vizslas are simple to teach and friendly toward kids, other dogs, and cats.
The Vizsla was created as a hunting partner with the endurance and quickness of a hound and the brains of a pointer.
This H-breed dog's temperament is extremely comparable to the German Shorthaired Pointer. The Hungarian is known for being affable and sociable.
Hardy and clever, the Hungarian Vizsla is a breed renowned for its pleasant temperament. They have a strong urge to work, yet they are also obedient household dogs. Due to their demand for undivided care and protection from other animals, they may not get along with other pets and can be domineering among dogs. Because they are so playful, Hungarian Vizslas love to play with kids.
The Hungarian Vizsla is a loyal companion dog with an intelligence level that is fun to work with if you like thinking about puzzles. They have tons of energy and can be very social when they feel right at home so they tend to make great companions for city dwellers or apartment dwellers as well as those who enjoy working on brain teasers.
Breed Stats
- Group: Sporting
- Height: 21-24 inches
- Weight: 45-65 pounds
- Energy Level: Active
- Physical Characteristics: Red coat, lean frame, long build
- Lifespan: 10-14 years
- Color: Red
- Shedding: Rare
- Bark: Moderate to High
4. Harrier
A Harrier is very energetic and playful with children. This breed has an intense desire to hunt small animals such as rabbits and squirrels, so it needs a lot of exercise outside on hunting trips or walks so that the dog can expand its excess energy off-leash. The H breed originated in the early 20th century in Wales from dogs of the old English pointer type and other breeds.
A Harrier is a medium-sized dog with a short, easy-care coat and an athletic but calm, laid-back disposition. They are often called the "gentle giant" because of their size, strength, and patience. A Harrier has a soft mouth and needs to be trained so he doesn't bark or nip at people. His coat requires very little grooming except for regular brushing to remove dead hair. Harriers shed profusely twice a year, but due to their short coat, the mess is minimal compared to other breeds who shed heavily.
Breed Stats
- Group: Hound
- Height: 19-21 inches
- Weight: 45-60 pounds
- Energy Level: Active
- Physical Characteristics: Muscular body, short coat, glossy body, flop ears
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Color: Red, yellow, black, white, brown
- Shedding: Normal
- Bark: Low to Moderate
5. Havapoo
The Havapoo has the characteristics of both the Havanese and the Poodle.
Havapoo is a crossbreed dog obtained from mixing a Poodle with a Havanese. The Havapoo is a member of the toy group and has been bred for those looking for a companion with the intelligence of the Poodle and the playfulness of the Havanese.
They are good with children and have a gentle disposition like that of their parents. This breed makes an excellent pet for families since they like being around people, but they can live happily in apartments because they're not very noisy or active.
This H dog breed is very popular. The Havapoo has been featured on the "Today Show", the "Talk is Cheap" episode of "Animal Planet's 101 Dalmatians: The Series", and in "Dog Fancy" magazine, among other media venues.
Breed Stats
- Group: Toy
- Height: 8-15 inches
- Weight: 10-45 pounds
- Energy Level: Calm
- Physical Characteristics: Round, dark brown eyes, fluffy tail, tiny black nose
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Color: White, Brown, Grey, Black, Fawn
- Shedding: Rare
- Bark: Calm
6. Hokkaido
The Hokkaido can be described as a Peruvian Hairless Dog. This breed is very similar to other Peruvian Hairless Dogs in that it has no hair on its body, but it is very different than all other Peruvian Hairless dogs for the following reasons:
It originated in Japan and was developed to be a loyal companion pet.
You will find this dog delightful because of the characteristics of his breed being sweet, affectionate, and energetic. This breed of dog that starts with h was bred small animals and birds by sight and scent, combined with a high degree of intelligence. Their temperament is very loyal, fearless, and alert. This breed of dog can be used as a guard dog, and are great companions for all.
Breed Stats
- Group: Working
- Height: 17-20 inches
- Weight: 25-45 pounds
- Energy Level: Active
- Physical Characteristics: Pointy ears, muscular build, thick tail, large paws
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Color: Black, White, Grey, Red
- Shedding: Seasonal
- Bark: Calm and composed demeanor
7. Harlequin Pinscher
This H dog breed, which is linked to the Pinscher, is German in origin. German Pinscher and Doberman Pinscher were crossed to create Harlequin Pinscher canines.
They are enthusiastic, dependable, and smart. These dogs are ideal for hunting thanks to their long, slender bodies and short coats, which are also suitable for hot areas.
Since their intelligence and pleasant disposition toward animals that they are taught to be friendly with, this breed gets along well with other pets in the house.
This breed is even more intriguing and adaptable because it comes in a range of sizes, from short-legged puppies to tall adults. Usually thin and trim with a long neck and muzzle, this breed of dog begins with the letter H.
Breed Stats
- Group: Toy
- Height: 10-12 inches
- Weight: 8-10 pounds
- Energy Level: High to moderate
- Physical Characteristics: Square, small body, flat skull, strong muzzle, scissor teeth
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Color: Brindle, black, brown, white
- Shedding: Little
- Bark: High
8. Hygenhund
This dog is a Dachshund-cross with other breeds. The dog is little and has short legs. Hygenhunds are excellent family dogs as well as outstanding hikers and hunters due to their high level of endurance.
The Hygenhund is a superb addition to any family since it is an extremely sociable and intelligent dog breed that begins with the letter H. While this breed and other Dachshunds are quite similar, it is around 8 inches taller and 10 to 15 pounds heavier.
Although the Hygenhund was originally intended for hunting, it has long been raised for companionship and display. Due to their high level of intelligence, Pekinese are frequently utilized as support dogs since they are amenable to training and simple to housebreak.
These dogs are incredibly loving and enjoy curling up with their owners in a cozy setting. They are a brachycephalic dog breed, meaning their snouts are shorter than those of other breeds.
They are very simple to teach, making this breed appropriate for sports like agility competitions or obedience training.
Due to their short legs and compact bodies, hygenhunds make the ideal dog for anyone looking for an active companion who enjoys participating in a variety of activities but doesn't need a lot of exercise.
Breed Stats
- Group: Hound
- Height: 19-24 inches
- Weight: 44-55 pounds
- Energy Level: High
- Physical Characteristics: Solid build, high tail, wide black nose, straight coat
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Color: Brown, Tan, white
- Shedding: Low to moderate
- Bark: High
9. Hamiltonstövare
The Hamiltonstövare is a crossbred dog, very similar to the Havanese husky mix. This breed was originally developed in the 1920s as an easy-to-train hunting dog, although it has also been used for show dogs and family companions. Both male and female dogs are available.
The Hamiltonstövare is a dog originating in the United States. The Hamiltonstövare is commonly bred by crossing a Poodle with the Caucasian Shepherd Dog or Chihuahua. The dog may be any color except black or pure white, but should have a long coat; both ears of this breed should be pricked, and the neck must be short.
Their temperament is very crossbred, which means that they can be calm or aggressive. They are very intelligent, energetic dogs who will make excellent companions for families. While they are affectionate toward their family, they won't become overly attached to them and will guard the home from other animals.
When the Hamiltonstövare was first bred, it was thought that this dog would make a great hunter of bears and small game, but due to their size and temperament, the breed did not receive any official recognition.
Breed Stats
- Group: Hound
- Height: 19-24 inches
- Weight: 40-75 pounds
- Energy Level: High
- Physical Characteristics: Tall, Tricolored coat, hard feet
- Lifespan: 14-17 years
- Color: Tricolored - black, tan, white
- Shedding: Seasonal
- Bark: High
10. Hungarian Pumi
The Hungarian Pumi or Domestic Pumi is a small, intelligent, and energetic dog that was bred in the United Kingdom.
This dog beginning with an H was bred by crossing a Smooth Collie with a Bichon Frise but according to popular belief, it was actually started by accident at the same time as another dog breed many years before and decided to keep the dog. The Hungarian Pumi has wide nostrils, silky fur, floppy ears, an undulating tail (like a cat's), soft lips, and large eyes. This breed is known for losing its hair easily, so it is best to brush them often.
This H dog breed is very friendly, inquisitive, and protective. However they are also laid back, and a Hungarian Pumi can easily adapt to any lifestyle whether it be a family with children or just the owner themselves.
Breed Stats
- Group: Herding
- Height: 15-18 inches
- Weight: 22-29 pounds
- Energy Level: Active
- Physical Characteristics: Square outline, lean frame, agile body, long head, dark eyes, semi-erect eyes
- Lifespan: 12-13 years
- Color: White, fawn, grey, black
- Shedding: Rare
- Bark: High
11. Hanoverian Scenthound
Small scent hounds like the Hanoverian Scenthound have their roots in Germany. They resemble the Dachshund a lot.
The Dachsbracke (Dachs dog) is another name for the Hanoverian Scenthound. Although this breed was initially developed for hunting, it has also been developed for decades for display and companionship. Due to their high level of intelligence, Pekinese are frequently utilized as support dogs since they are amenable to training and simple to housebreak.
These dogs are amiable and relish curling up with their owners in a cozy setting. They are a brachycephalic dog breed, meaning their snouts are shorter than those of other breeds.
Hanoverian Scenthounds make good family pets since they are aware of their household's social structure. They are very curious, lively, and playful. These dogs have a lifetime affection for toys, which keep them busy for extended periods of time. The intelligence and endurance of the Hanoverian Scenthound make it the ideal dog breed for any active owner.
Breed Stats
- Group: Hound
- Height: 19-21 inches
- Weight: 79-99 pounds
- Energy Level: Active
- Physical Characteristics: Muscular frame, wrinkled forehead, hanging ears, short and thick coat
- Lifespan: 10-14 years
- Color: Brindle, Red
- Shedding: Seasonal
- Bark: Normal
12. Hovawart
The Hovawart is a large German dog that is very similar in size to the Boerboel. The dog has a long coat that comes in various colors, and blue eyes.
While there are not many differences between the Hovawart and the Boerboel, there are several notable ones. First of all, their hair lays down flat and resembles an Irish Water Spaniel's coat more than any other dog breed.
This breed does not shed much either, unless they become upset about something. The Hovawart's fur ranges from golden-red to grey-red with black tips on the hairs along with freckles on their body and face giving them a shaggy look.
Their temperament is very similar to the Boerboel, as they are loving, overly protective, loyal, and intelligent. The Hovawart has an amusing personality that many owners enjoy very much. They are fairly easy to train making this breed suitable for arts such as obedience training or agility competitions.
The Hovawart is the perfect H dog for anyone looking for an active companion who enjoys being involved in many activities but does not require too much exercise because of their large body frame.
Breed Stats
- Group: Working
- Height: 23-28 inches
- Weight: 65-90 pounds
- Energy Level: High
- Physical Characteristics: Heavy build, long fur, fluffy tail, floppy ears
- Lifespan: 10-14 years
- Color: Black, Tan
- Shedding: Seasonal
- Bark: Occasional
13. Hollandse Smoushond
The Hollandse Smoushond is a breed of small-sized, schnauzer-type dog. Hollandse Smoushond are known for their natural ability to herd livestock, sheep, and horses. The dog is muscular, has a broad head and jaw, and sometimes has roached ears.
The Smoushond was once used as a herding dog and guard dog before he became popular as an all-around working family companion that could help with livestock. Hollandse Smoushonds were originally bred by crossing the Old English Sheepdog with the Dogue de Bordeaux which are very similar in appearance. This breed was once used as a sheepdog, guard dog, and circus performer.
The Smoushond temperament is very dependent on the owner's way of handling them. They are known for being wary of strangers, but they become more trusting if their owner introduces them to visitors and family members over time. A Smoushond can be a good guard dog for those who train them properly because they are alert and will protect their master as soon as they see anyone who appears dangerous or suspicious.
This breed loves to follow orders from their owners and will also do the same with anyone else in the household who gives them commands.
Breed Stats
- Group: Terrier
- Height: 14-17 inches
- Weight: 20-22 pounds
- Energy Level: Normal
- Physical Characteristics: Long double coat, muscular-square body, flat ears
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Color: Yellow
- Shedding: Occasional
- Bark: Occasional
14. Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla
The Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla is a large breed of dog that originated in Hungary. The most notable difference between this breed and other breeds is its long coat. The coat features a coarser texture than one would expect from a dog with this length of hair, especially because Vizsla's coat tends to be very soft.
Hungarian Wirehaired Vizslas are large dogs that weigh between 55 and 65 pounds. They have limited amounts of white on their chest and toes, but they are primarily shades of sable or solid black colors along with parts of brown. These dogs' expression is always happy which makes them extremely attractive to pet owners and those interested in purchasing this breed as their next companion dog.
Their temperament is usually friendly but can be very protective over their family. This dog breed is not a guard dog but will bark to alert its owners of anything they find suspicious or unfamiliar.
The Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla is a great family pet for any family looking for a dog that will be obedient, loyal, and very playful even when it reaches old age. These dogs are also known to be good hunting dogs because of their speed and agility in the field.
Breed Stats
- Group: Working
- Height: 23-25 inches
- Weight: 55-65 pounds
- Energy Level: High
- Physical Characteristics: Wide skull, tapering muzzle, lean frame, oval eyes
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
- Color: Gold
- Shedding: Average
- Bark: Normal
15. Himalayan Sheepdog
The Himalayan Sheepdog is a herding dog that originated in the high mountains of Tibet. The dog was bred to herd sheep and goats and tend to them. These dogs are very brave and will attack any animal if they feel threatened or the owner gives them an order.
The Himalayan Sheepdog also known as the Chow Chow, is a medium-sized dog that weighs between 44 and 58 pounds. They do not shed much but do need consistent grooming because of their long coat. A Himalayan Sheepdog's coat can be straight slightly wavy, or completely flat depending on which coat type they inherit from their parents.
The Himalayan Sheepdog's coat is a dog in appearance, but what sets it apart from a typical sheepdog is its thick, wooly coat. This dog breed also has a distinctively long tail that provides them with extra warmth in the cold Himalayas. The long coat gives this dog breed a very soft, wooly appearance.
The Himalayan Sheepdog's temperament is known to be very social for a herding dog. This dog breed needs appropriate physical and mental stimulation for them to live as healthy and happy lives as possible. This type of exercise will also help keep the little dogs active and healthy throughout their life.
Breed Stats
- Group: Working
- Height: 26-30 inches
- Weight: 60-90 pounds
- Energy Level: Active
- Physical Characteristics: Big, solid, and sturdy body, padded feet, scissor bite jaw and teeth, pointed muzzle
- Lifespan: 10-11 years
- Color: Brown, Fawn, Black
- Shedding: Once a year
- Bark: Normal
16. Hokkaido Inu
The Hokkaido Inu dog breed is a Japanese native breed of dog. Its name in Japanese means "Northeast Shepherd Dog". The Hokkaido Inu is a large, short-coated, muscular dog with black and tan markings. It has a thick double coat that protects it from the cold climate. The ears are pendulous like a wolf's and set high on the head.
The Hokkaido Inu has been chosen as the official national dog of Japan since 1919. Many Neo-Inuit people live in Japan and this breed was released by them to save dogs that had been killed by guns during World War II due to its resemblance to wolves when attacked.
Breed Stats
- Group: Working
- Height: 18-20 inches
- Weight: 45-65 pounds
- Energy Level: Active
- Physical Characteristics: Muscular frame, pricked ears, curled tail, dense coat
- Lifespan: 12-15 years
- Color: Red, black, tan, white, brindle
- Shedding: Occasional
- Bark: Normal
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you list a few dog breeds whose names begin with "H"?
The following dog breed names begin with the letter "H": Husky, Hound, Hyena, Labradoodle, Himalayan Sheepdog, and Hawaiian Dogs.
What traits distinguish the Havanese breed?
One of the oldest dog breeds ever developed was the Havanese. The unusual coat of these dogs, which can be long or short, is well-known. They have erect ears that are perched high on their skulls, flat faces, and incredibly strong bodies.
Are Huskies suitable as family pets?
Ans: Huskies are renowned for their tremendous levels of energy, love of water, and extraordinary vigor. Due to their high level of energy, this breed requires an active owner who can provide them frequent exercise. It is preferable to keep them separate from other dogs that live in the home or children until they are older because they can be hostile toward other canines close to their family.
Describe the Hungarian Vizsla breed for me.
In the 1200s, Hungary was where the Hungarian Vizsla was first bred. It is a medium-sized dog with a thick, water-repellent coat. These dogs are well-known for being friendly family companions.
What kind of dog breed is the Husky?
Ans: This breed was created specifically to pull sleds across tough terrain and over long distances. Depending on how they were handled throughout their early training years and when they received affection after that time period, up until adulthood, this breed's personality might change.
What makes the harrier breed unique?
The medium-sized Harrier was developed initially in England. It is a hunting-oriented sporting dog. Originally, this breed was utilized for mounted small-game and bird hunting.
A Havachon is what?
A Chihuahua and a Yorkshire Terrier were crossed to create the Havachon dog breed. When fully grown, it is a well-known rare crossbreed that weighs 4–8 pounds.
What distinguishes the Hamiltonstövare breed from others?
The Swedish town of Hamilton serves as the inspiration for the name of the Hamiltonstövare dog breed. It is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence and was developed as a hunting, herding, and watchdog dog.
What should I keep in mind when owning a Hygenhund?
The town of Norway is where the Hygenhund dog breed was developed. It is a medium-sized dog with a beige-to-black-and-tan coat pattern. This dog breed wasn't designed to be entirely domesticated; it can still hunt and herd hares. To train your dog, you must be willing to put forth the effort.
Is the Hokkaido breed unique?
Yes, the Hokkaido breed is extremely rare, even in its nation of origin, Japan. The Hokkaido dog breed, which ranges in size from medium to enormous, was developed in Japan.
Conclusion
Here we are at the end of our list of dog breeds that start with H!
So buy wisely according to your requirements and always remember that every dog is an independent being so take good care of them. And once you own a dog as your companion, treat them with lots of love and care because they are grateful to you for it.
We hope our analysis went well for you. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them through the comment section below.
Reference links:
- Continental Kennel Club
- https://ckcusa.com/about/about-us/
- Wag!
- https://wagwalking.com/breed/harlequin-pinscher
- YouTube
- Rocadog
- Harlequin Pinscher - TOP 10 Interesting Facts - YouTube
