European Dog Breeds
Even though most of them come from Germany, France and Spain, we could say that there are European dog breeds from every country on the continent. In this text, we will tell you which are the most famous.
Examples of European Dog Breeds
Perhaps they originated in Europe, but were exported to all parts of the world. Even so, they are well-known breeds and, below, we will talk a little about these European dogs.
1. Boxer
This German breed is of the Molosso type, of medium size, and was used in the World Wars to send messages, collect the bodies of wounded soldiers, or carry communication cables. In addition, it has a strong head, imposing jaw, flat snout, short fur with stripes (some are all brown), ears that “groom” for aesthetics (although in many countries this practice is prohibited) and a short tail. It is very active, faithful, vigilant, a bit dominant and territorial.
2. Spanish Mastiff
It is one of the European dog breeds very present in rural areas, and is used as a livestock guard. This oversize dog is muscular and powerful, has thick fur, and can weigh up to 70 kg (it is the largest of the Spanish breeds). In addition, he is elegant, distrustful of strangers, devoted to his owners, and an effective nanny. Your guardian instinct is superior to anyone else’s.
3. Dogue de Bordeaux
Of French origin, this large dog is included in the group of “guardians”. It is one of the oldest breeds in the country, with a large head, short snout, distant green or honey eyes and drooping ears. In addition, it can live up to ten years and its fur is short and fine, with a mahogany or dandelion color. The Dogue de Bordeaux is very affectionate, attached to his family, faithful and peaceful. Does not like to be alone (can become aggressive).
4. Neapolitan Mastiff
This dog breed has Italian origin (from Naples, more specifically) and is very old. Descended from the Tibetan Mastiff, who was taken to Italy by Alexander the Great. He also has a big, robust body and a broad back. In addition, this dog is a great protector of family and home, very intelligent, noble, majestic, decisive and loyal. Don’t bite unless you have a very strong motive.
5. Beagle
Dog of English origin, small to medium in size, with short legs and ears that go to the ground. The creation of this breed began more than two thousand years ago, however, its modern development began in 1830. It is related to the Elizabethan era, because this queen had several of them. Along with the Cão de Santo Humberto, the Beagle has one of the most developed senses of smell. It is a calm animal, happy, affectionate, a little shy, intelligent and decisive.
6. Collie
It is of Scottish origin, very popular in northern England as well. Used as a herding dog in the mountains, the most common is long-haired (made famous by the “Lassie”), although there are also short-haired, bearded dogs and the Border Collie (medium-haired) subbreed. It is a very sweet animal, easy to train, loyal, companion and suspicious of those who do not know.
7. Brussels Griffon
It is a miniature dog that comes from Belgium and includes three different European breeds: Belgian griffon, Brussels griffon and little Brabantino. It has a flat face, large eyes, a round head and weighs about 4 kg.
8. Welsh Terrier
It is one of the oldest Terriers, and was bred to hunt foxes, badgers and rodents in the mid-18th century. It requires firm and constant handling. He is of short stature, square body, elegant, with a broad head and medium snout.
The tail is erect and its fur is woolly (similar to wool) to insulate it from the cold. Furthermore, he is a very active, outgoing and friendly animal. Can be reserved with strangers.
Other European dog breeds are: Cocker Spainel (England), Golden Retriever (Scotland), Dobermann (Germany), Poodle (France), Maltese (Italy) and Boiadeiro de Berne (Switzerland).
Main image source: Wade Brooks
