Would you believe that there is a dog breed for every letter of the alphabet? Well, yep, there absolutely is one starting with every single letter, even tough ones like X and Z! Letters like S are not the hardest ones to come up with one or two breeds. But there are many more than just the common ones you know.

I have put together this list to show you some of the dog breeds that start with S. Whether you’re looking for a new breed to get or just want to learn more, you’ll get that here.

Do you have a specific question about dog breeds that start with S? Then use the table of contents below to jump to the most relevant section. And you can always go back by clicking on the black arrow in the right bottom corner of the page. Also, please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. For more details, check the Disclosure section at the bottom of the page. 

Shiba Inu

Compact but athletic, the body of a Shiba Inu is coated in muscle, helping it compete in many dog sports. They are one of the native breeds of Japan. You might recognize them from a lot of internet memes, too (doge!).

They’re highly independent dogs who don’t need constant attention, so they’re all right to spend a lot of time alone. They make perfect apartment dogs, too, because they don’t need to exercise too much.

They are one of the most popular dog breeds beginning with S.

Scotchi

Often called a Scotchahua, a Scotchi is a hybrid dog made by combining a Chihuahua and a Scottish Terrier. 

These little dogs have lots of character, sometimes displaying the “big dog in a little body” syndrome known to Chihuahuas. This is a dog breed starting with S that many people don’t know about.

They are ideal for children’s homes because they often fight for affection and can be competitive in the aggressive way that Chihuahuas often do. 

Schneagle

Schneagle is a cross between the Schnauzer Miniature and the Beagle. 

Some Schneagles are hypoallergenic, making them perfect for people who want to own a dog despite allergies. They are all caring and faithful companions. 

They do just as well in homes with yards and apartments without them, but they’re established escape artists, so make sure the yard is locked close.

Saint Bernard

Nowadays, Saint Bernard is not that famous. But it’s also one of the most popular dogs in the world. The Beethoven movie series was about a family dog of this breed.

They are huge and very muscular, yet they are still very calm and happy. Looks can be deceiving in this regard.

They’re also known as nanny dogs due to how good they are with kids.

Southern Russian Sheepdog

This herding dog is tall, heavy, and almost looks like the sheep they’re supposed to be herding! 

These dogs have incredible stamina that helps them patrol and defends their territories almost continuously. 

Their naturally defensive temperament ensures that no threat is unnoticed, a quality that makes them outstanding guardian dogs.

Shar-Pei 

Shar-Pei is a Chinese dog easily identifiable by rolls of loose skin on its face and body. Michelin Man would probably look like that if he was a dog!

Many dog breeds start with S, but this one is less known. They are mid-sized dogs with physical features that make them excellent guardians. 

They are extremely loyal to the family while being cautious and untrustworthy of outsiders. So they can be ideal as guard dogs.

Sarplaninac

The Sarplaninac, once known as the Illyrian Shepherd Dog, is a dog that protects livestock. It is large and muscular, with long hair.

They are named for the Balkan mountain range where they come from. 

This breed is believed to be one of the oldest genuine Molosser dog breeds in the world.

Schapendoes

The shaggy dog is also known as the Dutch Sheep Dog. They were once the most common sheepdog in the Netherlands, but their numbers decreased when Border Collie was introduced.

The Schapendoes are adorned with loose, long coats. Their ability to leap is exceptional, making them excel in agility and other dog sports.

Schipperke

The next dog breed starting with S, the Schipperke, is a dog native to Belgium. 

These little dogs are born to work hard, bred to be ratters and watchdogs. Their strong jaws and forequarters make them ideal for rat hunting.

Their black mane and foxy features make them quickly stand out from the crowd.

Scoodle

Scoodle is a hybrid between the Scottish Terrier and the Poodle. And those are affectionate, intelligent, and loyal dogs.

They are full of life, always willing to play. But if they’re left alone for too long, they’re also susceptible to separation anxiety.

These are perfect pets for those with allergies because they are hypoallergenic.

Sealyham Terrier

These small dogs only weigh up to 24 pounds. They are some of the more recently developed dog breeds that start with S.

However, despite their small size, they are stronger and more substantial than most other small dog breeds.

These dogs are affectionate, outgoing, and practicing. But often, they can also be a little bit stubborn.

Shikoku

When looking at dog breeds beginning with S, you’ll find a lot of Japanese breeds. The Shikoku, or Shikoku-ken or Kochi-ken) is a lesser-known breed. 

Like the Shiba Inu, these medium-sized dogs started off as hunting dogs. They have very high stamina and are very muscular. 

They come in many colors, such as red, black, and tan. These dogs are very easy to train and strive to please their owners.

Slovensky Cuvac

Originally from the Slovak mountains, the Slovensky Cuvac is strong, fearless, and alert. This canine looks a lot like any other kind of mountain dog. 

It has a broad appearance, a thick coat, and a lot of stamina. These dogs can endure the harsh conditions of the mountain, demonstrating both their appearance and their temperament. Their alertness makes them wonderful dogs for protecting the family.

Samoyed

The Samoyed is a beautiful mass of poofy hair, a rugged working dog that looks like a stuffed toy. They are one of the more popular dog breeds that start with S.

They have almost infinite stamina and can operate in some icy environments without worry, even when handling temperatures close to or at negative degrees. 

Their faces appear to be smiling at all times, a curious evolutionary trait that prevents them from drooling, which may cause icicles to freeze on their faces.

Spanish Mastiff

Used for safety and security, the Spanish mastiff is a giant breed.

They’re muscular and well-balanced. They have a low-pitched bark, and you can hear it from a long distance. These dogs make good watches and guard dogs because of their build, bark, and history.

Stabyhoun

Another hunting dog breed that starts with S, these independent dogs are native to the Netherlands. 

They hunted moles and rabbits once. But today, they’re still hunting ducks and other birds. They’re curious, gentle, and patient.

With a close family bond, these dogs are quick to train and eager to please.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

Staffordshire Bull Terrier is the descendant of the burly canines that once filled the battle pits in England. Yet today, they are known as caring, docile dogs that are perfect for families. 

These dogs possess remarkable compassion and gentleness towards children, a quality that has won them the affection of families worldwide.

Saluki

The Saluki is one of the oldest breeds of dogs in the world. And initially, they were bred for hunting.

They are fast and agile dogs that make very loyal pets. These dogs are small, graceful, and highly independent, with a remarkable life span of up to 17 years.

Credits: thanks for the cover photo to Canva.

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