Can You Pronounce All 13 of These Unusual Dog Names

Dog breeds come with unique names that can be challenging to pronounce.

The American Kennel Club currently recognizes 190 different dog breeds, with more international breeds arriving in the United States regularly.

When faced with unusual breed names like “Xolo,” many dog lovers struggle with proper pronunciation.

Understanding how to correctly pronounce dog breed names adds to our appreciation of these animals.

This guide will help you learn the correct pronunciations of various dog breeds and provide interesting facts about each one.

The information will help you speak confidently about different breeds during your next visit to the dog park or while browsing adoption options.

Beauceron

The Beauceron (pronounced “Bo-ser-on”) is a working dog from northern France.

This breed originated in the Beauce region and served dual purposes as both a herding and guard dog.

Their strong protective instincts and work ethic made them valuable companions for French farmers.

Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois (pronounced Mal-in-wa) is a shepherd dog breed that has gained recognition for its effectiveness as a guard dog.

This breed gets its name from Malines, a Belgian city.

These dogs have strong protective instincts and are known for their loyalty.

Belgian Malinois are often used in:

• Military operations
• Police work
• Search and rescue
• Personal protection

Their intelligence and high energy make them excellent working dogs, though they need proper training and regular exercise.

Coton de Tulear

The Coton de Tulear (pronounced “Cah-TON de Tu-lay-ahr”) is a small, playful breed named after Tuléar, a city in Madagascar, and its distinctive cotton-like coat.

This fluffy companion is related to the Bichon family.

Their soft, white fur resembles cotton wool, giving them their unique name and appearance.

Entlebucher Mountain Dog

The Entlebucher Mountain Dog (pronounced ENT-leh-boo-cur) belongs to the Sennenhund family.

This breed shares ancestry with both the Greater Swiss and Bernese Mountain Dogs.

These dogs get their name from the Entlebuch region in Switzerland, located at the base of the Alps.

They have a distinctive appearance with a sturdy build and tri-colored coat pattern.

Alpine heritage makes these dogs well-suited for working in mountainous terrain.

They’re known for their intelligence, loyalty, and energy.

Keeshond

The Keeshond (pronounced KAYZ-hond) is a medium-sized spitz breed with family ties to the Pomeranian.

These dogs have a distinctive appearance with their fluffy coat and fox-like face.

Keeshonden (the proper plural form) were named after Dutch patriot Cornelis “Kees” de Gyselaer, giving them historical significance beyond their charming looks.

Kooikerhondje

The Kooikerhondje (pronounced KOY-ker-hond) is a Dutch dog breed whose name means “little caging dog.”

This Spaniel family member was traditionally used to lure ducks into cages for hunters.

These medium-sized dogs have distinctive feathered ears and a white coat with reddish-orange patches. They are known for their agility and intelligence.

Mudi

The Mudi is a Hungarian herding dog that shares ancestry with other Hungarian breeds like the Pumi and Puli.

The name is pronounced “Moodie” and the plural form is “Mudik.”

These dogs have strong herding abilities and a distinctive appearance.

They represent one of Hungary’s traditional working breeds.

Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen

The Petit Basset Griffon Vendéen (pronounced “Puh-TEE Bah-SAY Gree-FOHN VON-day-uhn”) is a small hunting dog from France’s Vendée region.

These scent hounds were developed to track and chase rabbits through rough terrain.

Their short legs and wiry coat are perfect for moving through thick brush.

Some key traits of this breed include:

• Purpose: Hunting hound, particularly for rabbits
• Size: Small but sturdy
• Coat: Rough, wiry texture
• Origin: Vendée region of France

These dogs combine a friendly nature with strong hunting instincts.

They often appear in dog shows but remain true working hounds at heart.

Portuguese Podengo Pequeno

The Portuguese Podengo Pequeno (pronounced Poe-DEN-go Pe-KEN-o) is a small hunting dog originally bred to hunt in packs.

These dogs excel at pursuing small game with their keen senses and agility.

The breed comes in three size varieties:

• Small (Pequeno)
• Medium (Médio)
• Large (Grande)

Known for their intelligence and friendly nature, these dogs make both effective hunters and pleasant companions.

Their alert demeanor and compact size make them adaptable to various living situations.

Schipperke

The Schipperke (pronounced “SKIP-er-kee”) is a small breed that originated in Belgium, where its name translates to “little shepherd.”

These energetic dogs have mischievous personalities and need plenty of physical activity to manage their spirited nature.

Without sufficient exercise, Schipperkes may become restless and find creative ways to entertain themselves.

Spinone Italiano

The Spinone Italiano (pronounced Spin-OH-nay Ih-tahl-YAH-no) is a versatile hunting dog that originated in Italy’s Piedmont region.

This breed specializes in pointing and retrieving during hunts.

Key characteristics include:

• Origin: Piedmont, Italy
• Skills: Hunting, pointing, retrieving
• Pronunciation: Spin-OH-nay Ih-tahl-YAH-no

These dogs are known for their practical hunting abilities and Italian heritage.

Vizsla

The Vizsla, pronounced “VEESH-la,” is a Hungarian pointer breed.

These dogs are easily recognized by their striking red coat.

Vizslas have gained popularity for their affectionate and gentle temperament.

Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced “Show-low-eats-queen-tlee”) is an ancient breed considered sacred by the Aztec civilization. This notable hairless dog originates from Mexico and comes in three different size varieties.

Their distinctive appearance and historical significance make them unique among dog breeds.