The Federation Cynologique Internationale recognizes approximately 350 different breeds of dog globally, and when you take into account hybrids and popular crossbreeds, there are potentially thousands of different breeds. Every breed has its own unique story, background, and characteristics, as well as its own physical appearance.
Below, we have listed 50 dog breeds that start with S. The list includes well-known purebred breeds, as well as some of the more common hybrids, and there are some rarer breeds that you may not yet be aware of.
Dog Breeds That Start with S
1. Saarloos Wolfdog
Lifespan:
19–12 Years
Size:
70–100 Pounds
The Saarloos Wolfdog was bred in 1932 when Leendert Saarloos crossed a German Shepherd with a Eurasian Gray Wolf. The breed needs early socialization and training, and has a tendency to roam, but can be a very loyal member of the family that has a striking look that is very similar to that of its wolf ancestors.
2. Saint Bernard
Lifespan:
8–10 Years
Size:
120–180 Pounds
The Saint Bernard is a giant breed that can weigh as much as 180 pounds at full maturity, but it is known for being gentle and caring, having initially been used to find and even rescue lost travelers. It is known for its tendency to drool, and the size of the breed means it will require a lot of space in your home.
3. Saint Shepherd
Lifespan:
10–12 Years
Size:
90–150 Pounds
The Saint Shepherd is a hybrid that combines the massive Saint Bernard with the protective German Shepherd. Although it doesn’t quite grow as big as the St. Bernard parent, it can still reach 150 pounds when fully grown. The breed requires early socialization and can be prone to heavy drooling.
4. Saluki
Lifespan:
12–14 Years
Size:
45–64 Pounds
The Saluki is a sighthound, and it shares many properties with other sighthounds like Greyhounds. It is very fast but only really prone to short bursts of speed and will spend a lot of time lying around the house. The Saluki has a short coat on the body but long hair on the ears and tail.
5. Samollie
Lifespan:
12–14 Years
Size:
50–65 Pounds
The Samollie is an intriguing cross of the Samoyed and the Collie. This medium-sized dog has the stamina and energy levels of both parent dogs, which means it needs a lot of exercise every day. It also has the intelligence of the Collie, so it can learn a lot and it can learn quickly.
6. Samoyed
Lifespan:
12–14 Years
Size:
35–65 Pounds
The Samoyed is a purebred dog that was bred by the Samoyede people of Siberia to pull sleds, herd reindeer, and help with family chores. Although an independent dog, it can be trained, enjoys being given tasks to perform, and makes a loyal and loving member of the family.
7. Samusky
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
45–60 Pounds
The Samusky is a hybrid of two similar breeds: the Samoyed and the Siberian Husky. Both are Spitz-type dogs bred to pull sleds and work and both hail from the same area. They are also physically similar, and you can expect an independent dog with a lot of energy that may cause mischief and mayhem.
8. Sapsali
Lifespan:
10–12 Years
Size:
35–60 Pounds
The Sapsali, also known as the Sapsaree, was bred as a companion dog and is considered loyal and loving with family. It is a sociable dog, too, that will typically get along with most people. It is often used as a support dog in hospitals and locals believe it wards off evil spirits. The Sapsali is rarely found outside its native country.
9. Sarplaninac
Lifespan:
11–13 Years
Size:
35–60 Pounds
The Sarplaninac is a big breed that was used to guard livestock. They can be independent and enjoy spending time outdoors while also having high levels of energy that you will need to try and wear down if you want an easy life as a Sarplaninac owner.
10. Schapendoes
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
25–55 Pounds
Schapendoes are medium to large herding dogs that originate in the Netherlands but are rarely seen outside their home country. However, they do make amazing family pets if you can find one to buy or adopt. Like most herding dogs, they need plenty of exercise and are considered intelligent.
11. Schipperke
Lifespan:
13–15 Years
Size:
12–16 Pounds
The Schipperke is a lively dog that integrates well into families and will get along with adults, children, and even other dogs and cats. Originally bred to hunt rats, the breed can be mischievous but is always up for fun, but it does need plenty of regular exercise.
12. Schnauzer
Lifespan:
10–16 Years
Size:
10–45 Pounds
The Schnauzer comes in three sizes: Miniature, Standard, and Giant. The Standard is considered the original breed and it was bred to herd, guard, and perform other tasks including killing rats. The breed is friendly, easy to train, and can adapt to life in an apartment or a house with more outdoor space.
13. Schneagle
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
7–20 Pounds
The Schneagle crosses the popular Beagle with the bright and friendly Schnauzer. Its size depends on the size of the Schnauzer parent and can range from 6 or 7 pounds right up to 20 pounds. It is a lively hybrid breed that can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for too long.
14. Schnoodle
Lifespan:
10–16 Years
Size:
5–70 Pounds
Combining the Schnauzer and the Poodle, the Schnoodle can vary considerably in size and weight, from a diminutive 5 pounds to a big 70-pound, intelligent, trainable, and friendly dog. Although the Poodle is widely thought to be French, originally, it is more likely that the breed was first developed in Germany.
15. Scotch Collie
Lifespan:
14–16 Years
Size:
40–70 Pounds
The Scotch Collie is one of several Collie breeds and is considered one of the oldest, likely being used to eventually develop the Border Collie. It is long-haired, lively, and has tons of energy. Owners will need to find ways to help burn this energy off for a well-behaved pup.
16. Scottish Terrier
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
20–25 Pounds
Bred to hunt and kill rats in Scotland, the Scottish Terrier is a small and tenacious breed. It is best recognized for its beard and bushy eyebrows, which give it a wizened look. Its terrier nature means that the Scottish Terrier can be stubborn and challenging to train, but it is intelligent and very alert.
17. Sealyham Terrier
Lifespan:
12–14 Years
Size:
20–28 Pounds
The Sealyham Terrier is another terrier breed. Although only bred in the late 19th Century, the Sealy is close to extinction and one of the breeds that was first used to create the Sealyham Terrier, the White Cheshire Terrier, has already sadly gone extinct.
18. Sheepadoodle
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
30–80 Pounds
Being a cross between the Old English Sheepdog and the Poodle, the Sheepadoodle comes in a variety of sizes. Although it is a hybrid, it was first bred in the 1960s when it was bred by handlers in the US Army who were allergic to other service dog breeds, as the Poodle is said to be hypoallergenic.
19. Shepadoodle
Lifespan:
10–14 Years
Size:
40–90 Pounds
The Shepadoodle has a similar background to that of the Sheepadoodle except it was primarily bred as a service dog for the US Army Police. It combines the German Shepherd and the Poodle, both of which have been used as police dogs in countries across the world.
20. Shepkita
Lifespan:
10–13 Years
Size:
80–110 Pounds
A cross between the German Shepherd and the Akita, the Shepkita is an active breed that is sometimes bred for its intimidating appearance. It is an intelligent, hard-working breed, but it will need a lot of mental stimulation, physical exercise, and early socialization to ensure a good family pet.
21. Shepweiler
Lifespan:
10–13 Years
Size:
70–120 Pounds
The Shepweiler is a hybrid that combines two of Germany’s best-known breeds: the German Shepherd and the Rottweiler. The cross has a muscular body and is a strong dog. The breed can be trained very well but is generally not recommended for novice owners.
22. Shetland Sheepdog
Lifespan:
12–14 Years
Size:
15–25 Pounds
The Shetland Sheepdog is a long-haired herding dog that was originally used to round up sheep, ponies, and even chickens. It is smaller than most Collie breeds, but it is lively, intelligent, and can be very vocal. It makes a great family pet and is especially good for families with energetic children.
23. Shiba Inu
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
15–25 Pounds
The Shiba Inu is one of Japan’s six native dog breeds. All existing Shiba Inus come from one of three bloodlines that were left after World War II. They are loyal and caring dogs that can make good family pets as they are affectionate and lively.
24. Shichi
Lifespan:
10–12 Years
Size:
9–16 Pounds
The Shih Tzu Chihuahua Mix is a small dog with a huge personality. It makes a good watchdog because it is vocal and will alert you to any approaching strangers or potential threats. It can also be very energetic and may prove too much of a handful for some potential owners.
25. Shih Poo
Lifespan:
12–16 Years
Size:
5–20 Pounds
The Shih Poo combines the Toy Poodle and Shih Tzu breeds. It is a small dog that is affectionate and playful. They can be a good choice for allergy sufferers as both parent breeds are considered hypoallergenic because they rarely shed.
26. Shih Tzu
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
9–16 Pounds
Shih Tzu means “little lion” in Chinese and the breed was first raised as a companion dog. It would keep its owner’s feet warm by laying on them in bed, which should give some indication of what the breed is like as a pet. It wants to be close to its owner and is very much a lap dog.
27. Shikoku
Lifespan:
10–12 Years
Size:
35–55 Pounds
The Shikoku is another of Japan’s six native breeds. It is a working dog of medium size that was used to track animals including boar. It is a rare breed outside Japan but can make a good working dog or pet for experienced owners and handlers.
28. Shiloh Shepherd
Lifespan:
9–14 Years
Size:
80–130 Pounds
The Shiloh Shepherd was first bred in the US where several herding and working breeds were combined to create a dog that is highly capable of herding. It was also bred to be kind and gentle with humans and is friendly with children and other animals.
29. Shiranian
Lifespan:
13–15 Years
Size:
4–16 Pounds
The Shiranian is a hybrid breed that combines the Shih Tzu and the Pomeranian, both of which are popular small dog breeds. It is a friendly companion dog that enjoys spending time with its owners, but it can suffer separation anxiety if left alone for too long, so while it is ideal for seniors, it is not the best choice for working families.
30. Shollie
Lifespan:
3–15 Years
Size:
60–90 Pounds
Combining the German Shepherd and the Collie, the Shollie is a hard-working dog who is intelligent and loves to be given a job to do. It is very energetic and loyal, and owners need to ensure good socialization and training to make sure it veers towards friendly, rather than overprotective.
31. Siberian Husky
Lifespan:
12–14 Years
Size:
30–60 Pounds
The Siberian Husky has become a very popular breed of pet dog. Originally bred to pull sleds, the Husky loves to be outdoors, has tons of energy, and can be incredibly mischievous. The breed also tends to be very noisy, although it howls rather than barks. Although the Husky makes a fun companion for the right owner, potential owners need to know what they are letting themselves in for before taking one on.
32. Siberian Retriever
Lifespan:
10-14 Years
Size:
40-70 Pounds
The Siberian Retriever, or Husky Lab, is a cross between a Siberian Husky and a Labrador Retriever. It’s difficult to say whether a Siberian Retriever will be friendly, loving, and people-oriented like the Lab or more stubborn and mad like the Siberian Husky.
33. Siberpoo
Lifespan:
10–13 Years
Size:
45–60 Pounds
This cross between a Siberian Husky and a Poodle offers the energy of the Siberian Husky but is tempered with the prim behavior of the Poodle. It also benefits from the low shedding nature of the Poodle parent and can make a great family companion that is trainable but may still retain some stubbornness.
34. Silky Terrier
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
8–12 Pounds
While most terriers are known for their wiry hair, the Silky Terrier has human-like hair, which means it doesn’t shed but does lose hair like a human does. Despite being small, this breed needs plenty of exercise, and it is a high-energy pup that can take a surprising amount of work.
35. Silver Labrador
Lifespan:
10–14 Years
Size:
60–90 Pounds
The Labrador is one of the most popular breeds in the US and around the world and is generally considered the best breed for novices and experienced owners. It is also a highly skilled and adaptable working breed. The Silver Labrador offers these traits, wrapped up in a beautiful and unusual silver coat.
36. Skye Terrier
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
25–50 Pounds
Skye Terriers are true terriers which means they are loyal to their handlers, but they can be very stubborn and headstrong. They are also energetic, and they love to run, chase, dig, and jump, so owners need to find ways in which to let their dogs vent their physical energy.
37. Slovensky Cuvac
Lifespan:
11–13 Years
Size:
65–100 Pounds
The Slovak Cuvac is a working dog that was originally bred from wolves. It is used for herding and as watchdogs to tend livestock and cattle. They can be fiercely loyal to their owners, but the Cuvac prefers to spend time outdoors rather than inside, and it does better in cold climates than hot.
38. Smooth Fox Terrier
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
15–20 Pounds
The Smooth Fox Terrier is a lively, energetic dog that loves to run around and is especially known for its rapid digging ability. Owners will need to ensure that their yards and other play areas are properly secure before letting this breed have the runaround.
39. Snorkie
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
7–12 Pounds
The lively and fun Snorkie is a hybrid breed that combines the Yorkshire Terrier and the Miniature Schnauzer. The breed loves to play and it does have high energy levels. It is also a clever little dog that can do well in training and can also do well in agility and some other canine sports.
40. Spanador
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
20–50 Pounds
By combining the loyal and attentive Labrador with the lively, energetic Cocker Spaniel, the Spanador is a water-loving dog that loves to get outside and spend time playing with its owners or exploring fields and water. It is good with kids, tends to train well, and can make a very desirable family companion.
41. Spanish Mastiff
Lifespan:
10–12 Years
Size:
180–220 Pounds
Like any Mastiff, the Spanish Mastiff is a giant of a dog that can weigh more than 200 pounds. The breed tends to be friendly and well-mannered, as well as intelligent, but it can be difficult to train because they believe they are the leader of the pack and know what’s best.
42. Spanish Water Dog
Lifespan:
10–14 Years
Size:
30–50 Pounds
With a scruffy-looking appearance and a penchant for jumping in any water, the Spanish Water Dog is a good choice of breed for families that enjoy spending time outdoors and are looking for an affectionate breed that is easy to train and will get along with all family members.
43. Spinone Italiano
Lifespan:
12–14 Years
Size:
60–80 Pounds
Recognizable for its rough coat as well as its beard and eyebrows, the Spinone Italiano is an ancient hunting breed that can be very playful and that has a lot of love and affection for its human owners. The Spinone Italiano is a heavy drooler, however.
44. Springer Spaniel
Lifespan:
12–14 Years
Size:
40–50 Pounds
The Springer Spaniel is a hunting dog specifically used to flush out birds from bodies of water. It is an intelligent breed that loves time outdoors and enjoys plenty of exercise but is also a loving and affectionate house pet that will integrate well into any family.
45. Springerdoodle
Lifespan:
10–15 Years
Size:
10–60 Pounds
Poodle mixes are some of the most popular hybrid and designer dogs because the Poodle is hypoallergenic as well as intelligent and trainable. The Spingerdoodle combines these features with the lively but loving nature of the Springer Spaniel.
46. Stabyhoun
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
40–60 Pounds
Originating from the Netherlands, the Stabyhoun is a sporting dog that is an excellent all-rounder. It can work as a pointer, retriever, and even a cart dog. Equally, the breed also makes a good family pet that is affectionate and easy to train, although it can be a little stubborn and does have high energy requirements.
47. Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Lifespan:
12–14 Years
Size:
25–40 Pounds
Staffordshire Bull Terriers were bred from fighting dogs, but they are known for being loving family dogs that are affectionate and close to their humans. They are often referred to as nanny dogs because they are not only affectionate with kids but seemingly understand their requirements.
48. Swedish Elkhound
Lifespan:
12–14 Years
Size:
40–70 Pounds
An ancient breed, the Swedish Elkhound bears some physical likeness to a wolf. It is a skilled hunting dog breed, although the Elkhound is also known to be calm and quiet in the home, which makes it a good choice as a companion dog. However, the Elkhound doesn’t get along with other dogs so it will need a lot of socialization from a young age.
49. Swedish Lapphund
Lifespan:
12–14 Years
Size:
30–45 Pounds
Sweden’s national dog, the Swedish Lapphund, was bred to herd reindeer. It has a weatherproof coat and prefers cold climates to warm ones. It is a very energetic dog and owners need to provide plenty of regular exercise to ensure it stays fit, healthy, and well-behaved. But, once playtime or work time is over, the Lapphund enjoys spending time with its family.
50. Swedish Vallhund
Lifespan:
12–15 Years
Size:
20–32 Pounds
The Swedish Vallhund has a short but long body: similar in body shape to the Corgi. It is an ancient herding breed that loves to spend time running and playing outdoors before settling down with the family in the evening. Early socialization is important to help overcome any potential social problems.
Conclusion
As you can see, the letter S is a common starting point for dog breed names, and the diversity within this group is impressive. From the towering Saint Bernard to the tiny Shih Tzu, these breeds span a wide range of sizes, temperaments, and backgrounds. If you’re considering bringing one of these pups into your home, be sure to research their needs to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle. And if you love a bit of alliteration, check out our list of great dog names that start with S! Sally the Shih Tzu? Scrappy the Samoyed? The possibilities are endless!
Featured Image Credit: Evgeniia Shikhaleeva, Shutterstock
