Read profiles below, or browse the complete index. Each reading page contains up to 18 full profiles.
Sealyham Terrier
A low-bodied Welsh working terrier with a predominantly white double coat. Wiry outer hair and facial furnishings give it a distinctive, substantial outline.
Coat
The predominantly white double coat has a wiry outer layer and dense undercoat; colored head markings can occur.
Care
Regular brushing and combing help prevent mats in the double coat. Hand stripping can maintain the wiry outer texture, and the low body may collect mud on outings.
Sources & credits
- Sealyham Terrier · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Shar Pei
A Chinese guardian breed with a harsh short coat, small ears and a broad muzzle. Skin folds are familiar features, while individuals may be more reserved with strangers than with their family.
Appearance & size
A broad muzzle, small triangular ears and a substantial body distinguish the outline.
Coat
The coat is short and harsh, with shorter horse-coat and longer brush-coat presentations.
Activity
Agility, scent games and lure coursing are possible activities for an interested, suitably prepared individual.
Care
Begin positive social experiences early and maintain calm, reward-based teaching. The short coat still sheds and needs ordinary attention.
Sources & credits
- Shar Pei · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Shetland Sheepdog
A small Scottish herding breed with a substantial double coat and a refined wedge-shaped head. The resemblance to a Rough Collie does not make it a miniature version of that breed.
Coat
Shetlands have a double coat, which means that they have two layers of fur that make up their coat. The outer coat is made up of long hair and is "harsh-textured and straight".
Activity
Agility, obedience, flyball and herding are possible outlets for interested individuals. Participation requires preparation rather than following automatically from breed identity.
Care
Brush thoroughly through the double coat, paying attention to the legs, belly and behind the ears. Expect extra work as the undercoat sheds.
Sources & credits
- Shetland Sheepdog · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Shiba Inu
A small-to-medium Japanese hunting breed with upright ears and a curled tail. Many are alert and affectionate with familiar people while retaining considerable independence.
Appearance & size
A small-to-medium spitz-type dog with upright ears, a curled tail and a balanced, muscular body.
Coat
Shiba Inu have a double coat; the topcoat is stiff with guard hairs and the undercoat is soft and plush. Although less common, Shiba Inu can also be long-haired as a result of inheriting the recessive gene from both parents.
Activity
Daily walks, safe exploration and games such as fetch offer useful outlets. Secure fencing and supervision matter for an inquisitive, capable climber.
Care
Brush regularly and increase attention substantially while the undercoat is shedding. The coat generally does not require clipping.
Sources & credits
- Shiba Inu · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Shih Tzu
A small companion breed with a sturdy body, short face and long coat. Regular grooming is central to maintaining a comfortable pet presentation.
Coat
The long coat occurs in many colors and patterns and needs careful maintenance against tangles.
Activity
Walks, fetch and play in a secure yard offer shared movement. Adapt sessions to the individual rather than treating small size as inactivity.
Care
Regular thorough grooming is essential to keep the long coat free of tangles. Keep the hair around the eyes and mouth clean and choose a manageable pet trim if needed.
Sources & credits
- Shih Tzu · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Siberian Husky
A medium-sized northern sled dog with a dense double coat and an athletic frame. A strong interest in running and exploration makes secure exercise and household engagement important.
Coat
Siberian Huskies come in a variety of colors and patterns, often with white paws and legs, facial markings, and tail tip. Example coat colors are black and white, copper-red and white, grey and white, pure white, and the rare " agouti " coat, though many individuals have blondish or piebald spotting.
Activity
Daily physical and mental engagement suit this active sled dog. Use controlled outings or secure enclosures when its desire to run is strong.
Care
Plan for substantial coat loss during seasonal shedding and dedicate time to removing loose undercoat.
Sources & credits
- Siberian Husky · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Skye Terrier
A Scottish terrier with a long, low body and a straight, substantial coat. Its working background sits alongside close attachment to familiar people.
Coat
A straight outer coat covers a softer undercoat, with longer hair veiling the face. Fawn, silver-grey and cream occur with dark facial points.
Activity
Daily movement and playful learning suit this inquisitive terrier. Include it in household activities rather than leaving it out of family life.
Care
Brush through the long coat regularly, especially behind the ears and around the legs. Attend to the feet and allow for seasonal undercoat shedding.
Sources & credits
- Skye Terrier · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Sloughi
A North African sighthound with a smooth short coat and lean, athletic body. It often develops close family bonds while taking time to warm to strangers.
Appearance & size
The Sloughi's head is long and elegant, with droopy ears, similar in appearance to a shorter, thicker-set Greyhound. The topline is, essentially, horizontal and blends into a gently sloping croup.
Activity
Plan regular exercise and secure opportunities for running. Limited housing space does not remove this sighthound's movement needs.
Care
Use patient, reward-based teaching with this sensitive sighthound. Thoughtful handling and a close relationship with its people matter alongside routine coat attention.
Sources & credits
- Sloughi · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
An Irish terrier with a soft, flowing wheaten-colored adult coat. Puppy coats can look much darker, and the mature furnishings require regular attention.
Appearance & size
A medium-sized terrier whose soft furnishings cover a balanced, muscular body.
Coat
The adult coat is soft, silky and wheaten-colored, with loose waves or curls. Puppy coats can be darker before maturing.
Activity
The Soft-coated Wheaten Terrier is an energetic and playful dog. It requires patience and consistent positive training.
Care
Frequent brushing and combing, together with regular trims, help keep the soft coat free of mats. Allow time for a comparatively demanding grooming routine.
Sources & credits
Spanish Mastiff
A giant Spanish livestock guardian with a powerful body and substantial head. Independence and early social experiences matter when planning life with this working breed.
Appearance & size
The Spanish Mastiff is a very large and powerful dog, similar in appearance to the other mastiff breeds. They have a large powerful head and serious and vigilant expression.
Coat
The thick coat is moderately long, with colors including fawn, red, black, brindle and combinations with white.
Activity
Daily walks and secure space for self-paced movement provide companion activity. A generally unhurried manner does not imply that the dog should remain inactive.
Care
Begin social experiences and consistent, gentle teaching early. Keep sessions engaging for this large, independent guardian.
Sources & credits
- Spanish Mastiff · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Spanish Water Dog
A Spanish working breed historically used with livestock, waterfowl and coastal fishermen. Its curly coat is a distinctive feature rather than proof of one exclusive working role.
Coat
A curly coat is a defining feature; it may form cords when left long.
Sources & credits
- Spanish Water Dog · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
St Bernard
A very large Alpine working breed historically associated with rescue at the Great St Bernard Pass. Short-haired and long-haired forms share the same substantial breed identity.
Appearance & size
Both coat forms are very large, with substantial bone, a powerful head and sturdy body.
Coat
Short-haired and long-haired forms occur, usually white with reddish-brown areas and darker head markings.
Typical behavior
Many are calm, patient and closely attached to family. Large size still calls for careful handling and supervision around children.
Activity
Shared walks allow exploration and lead practice. Let the individual dog's pace guide the outing rather than forcing a fixed distance.
Care
Regular brushing and combing remove loose hair, tangles and outdoor debris. Pay attention to the feet, beneath the forelegs and around the hindquarters.
Sources & credits
- St. Bernard (dog breed) · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
A muscular British terrier with a compact body and smooth coat. Its strength and interest in activity call for thoughtful handling and shared engagement.
Coat
The coat is short, close-lying and naturally glossy, showing the breed's muscular outline.
Activity
Daily walks and ball games offer outlets for physical and mental engagement, with surroundings and activity chosen for the individual.
Care
Regular brushing and baths when needed maintain the short coat. No special diet is implied by this straightforward grooming routine.
Sources & credits
Sussex Spaniel
A low, substantial English spaniel with a golden liver-colored coat. Its measured pace should not obscure its sporting origins and interest in scent.
Coat
The thick golden liver-colored coat has silky outer hair, undercoat and feathering on the ears, chest and legs.
Sources & credits
- Sussex Spaniel · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Swedish Lapphund
A Swedish spitz-type breed with roots in Sami reindeer work. Its full coat, alert manner and interest in shared tasks reflect that working history.
Coat
The Swedish Lapphund has a profuse, weather resistant double coat with a dense undercoat. They usually come in solid black, but may also have bronze or white markings.
Activity
Obedience, agility, herding and tracking are possible ways to engage this lively, versatile working dog.
Care
Early teaching and social experiences are useful, including helping a vocal individual learn appropriate household manners.
Sources & credits
- Swedish Lapphund · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Swedish Vallhund
A small Swedish cattle-working breed with a long, sturdy body and spitz features. Natural tail lengths vary, including bobtails.
Coat
The coat is short and harsh, with a tight topcoat and a soft, dense undercoat. The hair on the foreparts of the legs is slightly longer than that of the neck, chest and back parts of the hind legs.
Activity
The Vallhund can compete in a variety of sports including dog agility trials, obedience, rally obedience, showmanship, flyball, tracking, hiking, and herding events. Herding instincts and trainability can be measured at noncompetitive herding tests.
Care
Positive teaching and social experiences support this inquisitive working dog. Tail lengths vary naturally; tail alteration is not a care recommendation.
Sources & credits
- Swedish Vallhund · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Tatra Shepherd Dog
A large white Polish livestock guardian associated with the Tatra Mountains. Its substantial double coat and independently minded working background matter in companion life.
Coat
The white coat is long and dense over the body, with a substantial undercoat, neck ruff and furnished tail. Hair on the face and lower parts of the limbs is shorter.
Activity
Regular walks and a substantial, securely fenced area suit this large livestock guardian's outdoor activity.
Care
Brush and comb the substantial coat regularly, allowing more time when the undercoat sheds heavily.
Sources & credits
- Tatra Shepherd Dog · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
Tenterfield Terrier
A compact Australian terrier associated with vermin control and family companionship. A smooth coat and sometimes naturally shortened tail contribute to its recognizable outline.
Coat
The smooth single coat is predominantly white with black, tan or liver markings; tricolor is common.
Activity
Walks and dog sports such as agility, flyball or lure racing are possible outlets for an active individual.
Care
The smooth coat needs occasional brushing and washing. Include gentle nail and dental attention in the routine.
Sources & credits
- Tenterfield Terrier · Wikipedia contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Wikipedia text shortened, reorganized and paraphrased; independent registry facts added. Images excluded. Wikipedia-derived adaptations remain CC BY-SA 4.0; no exclusive ownership claimed. · License · Original revision / history
