Non-Sporting Dog Breeds
22 non-sporting breeds to explore. Diverse group of unique breeds.
American Eskimo Dog
Non-Sporting · Small
Known as the 'dog beautiful,' the American Eskimo Dog is a stunning Nordic breed with a thick white coat and a keen, alert expression. Despite their name, they originated in Germany and later became famous as circus performers due to their incredible intelligence and agility. They are loyal, energetic companions that thrive on human interaction and constant mental stimulation.
Bichon Frise
Non-Sporting · Small
The Bichon Frise is a cheerful, small dog breed with a distinctive white curly coat that gives them a powder-puff appearance. Known for their merry temperament and affectionate nature, they were once favorites of French royal courts and remain popular companions today due to their hypoallergenic qualities.
Boston Terrier
Non-Sporting · Small
Known as the 'American Gentleman,' the Boston Terrier is a compact, well-balanced dog famous for its tuxedo-like coat and impeccable manners. Originally developed in Boston in the late 1800s, they are highly affectionate companions that adapt beautifully to city life.
Bulldog
Non-Sporting · Medium
The Bulldog is a thick-set, low-slung, well-muscled companion whose iconic 'sourmug' face represents courage and tenacity. Despite their tough appearance, they are famously gentle, affectionate, and prefer a quiet nap on the sofa over intense activity. Their calm and dependable nature makes them wonderful family pets that adapt well to various living situations.
Chinese Shar-Pei
Non-Sporting · Medium
Distinguished by its deep wrinkles and blue-black tongue, the Chinese Shar-Pei is an ancient and unique breed that served as a multipurpose farm dog in China. While they are intensely loyal to their family, their independent and guardian nature makes them naturally wary of strangers and other dogs.
Chow Chow
Non-Sporting · Large
An ancient breed from China, the Chow Chow is known for its lion-like ruff, deep-set eyes, and unique blue-black tongue. While aloof with strangers, they are intensely loyal to their families and possess a dignified, cat-like personality.
Coton de Tulear
Non-Sporting · Small
Known as the 'Royal Dog of Madagascar,' the Coton de Tulear is a charming companion breed famous for its soft, cotton-like white coat. These happy, clownish dogs are deeply devoted to their families and are known for their ability to walk on their hind legs to entertain people. They are remarkably hypoallergenic and lack the typical 'doggy' odor, making them excellent indoor companions.
Dalmatian
Non-Sporting · Large
Originally used as carriage dogs to protect horses and coaches, Dalmatians are famous for their unique spotted coats. They are high-energy athletes with a history as firehouse mascots and versatile workers. Their sleek appearance and distinct spots make them one of the most recognizable breeds in the world.
Finnish Spitz
Non-Sporting · Medium
Known as the 'Bark Pointer' of Finland, the Finnish Spitz is a fox-like hunting dog with a vibrant red-gold coat and a bold, friendly personality. They were originally bred to hunt small game and birds, using their unique, rapid-fire bark to alert hunters of their find. Today, they are beloved national treasures in Finland, cherished for their loyalty, alertness, and spirited nature.
French Bulldog
Non-Sporting · Small
The French Bulldog is a charming, playful companion known for its distinctive 'bat ears' and sturdy, compact build. Originally bred in England as a miniature bulldog before becoming a favorite in Paris, they are beloved today for their affectionate nature and excellent suitability for apartment living.
German Spitz
Non-Sporting · Small
The German Spitz is a lively and devoted companion known for its beautiful, stand-off double coat and fox-like face. As one of the oldest dog breeds from Central Europe, they are highly adaptable, alert watchdogs that bond closely with their families.
Keeshond
Non-Sporting · Medium
Known as the 'Smiling Dutchman,' the Keeshond is a striking companion with a distinctive 'spectacles' marking around its eyes and a thick, plush coat. Originally bred as watchdogs for Dutch canal barges, they are highly social, intelligent, and deeply devoted to their families. Their cheerful disposition and adaptable nature make them excellent family pets that thrive on human interaction.
Kromfohrlander
Non-Sporting · Medium
The Kromfohrlander is a rare German companion breed known for deep loyalty and a close bond with its family. Developed after World War II, this medium-sized dog comes in both smooth and wiry-coated varieties and is especially valued for its cheerful, people-focused personality. Kromis are intelligent and adaptable, but they can be reserved with strangers, making early socialization important.
Lhasa Apso
Non-Sporting · Small
Originally bred as interior sentinels in Tibetan monasteries, the Lhasa Apso is a small but hardy dog with a regal bearing. They are known for their long, flowing coats and a watchful, independent nature that makes them excellent watchdogs despite their size.
Lowchen
Non-Sporting · Small
Commonly known as the 'Little Lion Dog,' the Lowchen is a brave and affectionate companion with a long history as a lapdog for European nobility. Despite their regal appearance, they are robust, playful, and highly intelligent dogs that excel in both agility and cuddling. Their name comes from the traditional 'lion cut' grooming style, which highlights their spirited yet loving nature.
Norwegian Lundehund
Non-Sporting · Small
The Norwegian Lundehund is a rare, lively spitz breed originally developed to climb steep coastal cliffs and hunt puffins in Norway. It is affectionate with family, curious, and highly agile, but can be independent and a bit reserved with unfamiliar people. What makes this breed truly special is its unique anatomy and remarkable flexibility, evolved for navigating narrow rock crevices.
Poodle (Standard)
Non-Sporting · Large
The Poodle is an exceptionally intelligent and elegant breed, famous for its hypoallergenic curly coat and remarkable versatility. Originally bred as a water retriever, they combine a dignified presence with a playful, athletic spirit that makes them excel in both work and companionship.
Schipperke
Non-Sporting · Small
Often called the 'Little Captain,' the Schipperke is a small, sturdy dog from Belgium originally bred as a watchdog and ratter for canal boats. They are known for their distinctive black double coat, fox-like face, and intense, curious personality that keeps their owners on their toes.
Shiba Inu
Non-Sporting · Small
The Shiba Inu is a compact, fox-like Japanese breed known for its bold personality and confident charm. Originally bred for hunting in Japan’s mountainous regions, it combines agility and sharp instincts with a clean, cat-like nature at home. Loyal to its family yet famously independent, the Shiba stands out for its spirited attitude and unmistakable expression.
Tibetan Spaniel
Non-Sporting · Small
The Tibetan Spaniel is a bright, cat-like companion bred in Tibetan monasteries as a watchdog and beloved lap dog. They are affectionate with their families, alert to every sound, and often reserved with unfamiliar people. Their expressive face, agile mind, and ancient heritage make them a small breed with a lot of personality.
Tibetan Terrier
Non-Sporting · Medium
The Tibetan Terrier is a loyal, affectionate companion developed in Himalayan monasteries, where it was treasured as a good-luck dog. Despite its name, it is not a true terrier and was bred as an all-purpose companion and watchdog rather than a hunter. Its distinctive profuse double coat and sure-footed agility make it especially unique among medium-sized breeds.
Xoloitzcuintli
Non-Sporting · Medium
The Xoloitzcuintli, an ancient Aztec breed, is a calm and loyal companion characterized by its hairless skin and warm body. Highly regarded for its intelligence and protective nature, this breed is often called the 'Mexican Hairless Dog' and serves as a devoted family member.