This is the list of dog breeds that begin with N; from towering guardians to pint-sized pals, this list has something for everyone.
So, whether you’re looking for your next furry family member or simply want to brush up on your dog breed knowledge, continue to read this article.
P.S. I’m the proud owner of one of the dogs on this list!
The list of dog breeds that begin with N
10. Native American Indian Dog
This is a breed that brings history to life. These dogs are modeled after the now-extinct original Native American dogs, with two sizes, different coat lengths, and color combinations.
They’re large, with some reaching up to 34 inches in height and weighing around 120 pounds. Known for their intelligence and sensitivity, these dogs are easy to train, provided you keep things positive. They’re great with kids, making them fantastic family pets, but their size means they’re better suited to houses with yards rather than apartments.
9. Neapolitan Mastiff
Moving on to a breed that looks like it stepped out of an ancient Roman fresco, the Neapolitan Mastiff. These massive dogs are imposing, with large heads and folds of skin, and can tip the scales at over 150 pounds.
Regardless of their size, they have a gentle soul and are fiercely loyal to their family. They’re great with children but due to their size, supervision is advised. Their droopy jowls and slow movements make them less suited for high-energy activities, but they love a good lounge session with their human pack.
8. Newfoundland Dog
They are the gentle giant of the dog world, affectionately known as “Newfie” These dogs are like the teddy bears with a sweet nature and a patient demeanor that makes them excellent with children. They can reach up to 150 pounds and stand about 28 inches tall.
Newfies are famous for their swimming abilities and love for water. While they do shed and drool, their loving nature more than makes up for it. They’re not the best fit for apartment living due to their size, but they’ll thrive in a home with space to roam and water to swim in.
7. Norwegian Buhund
These dogs are a bundle of energy and joy, originally bred for herding and guarding in Norway. This Spitz-type breed is known for its cheerful disposition and eagerness to please. Standing around 17-18.5 inches tall and weighing between 26-40 pounds.
Buhunds are medium-sized dogs with a thick double coat that sheds. They’re fantastic with kids and make loyal family pets. Their intelligence and energy level make them ideal for active families or individuals who enjoy outdoor adventures. Apartment living can work for a Buhund, provided they get enough exercise.
6. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, or “Toller” for short, is as fun to say as it is to be around. These medium-sized dogs are known for their distinctive method of luring ducks within range of hunters, a practice known as “tolling.”
Tollers are intelligent, agile, and have boundless energy, making them ideal companions for outdoor enthusiasts. They weigh between 35-50 pounds and are one of the smallest retriever breeds, making them a manageable size for most homes. They’re great with kids and do well in apartments if they receive adequate exercise.
5. Norwich Terrier
This small but mighty breed hails from the United Kingdom and is full of character. Norwich Terriers stand about 10 inches tall and weigh around 12 pounds, making them perfect companions for city dwellers.
They’re fearless, with a bark bigger than their bite, and have a friendly demeanor that wins hearts wherever they go. They’re hardy and enjoy an active lifestyle, fitting well in families with children. Their small size makes them excellent apartment pets, but don’t underestimate their need for exercise and mental stimulation.
4. Neapolitan Boxer
Imagine a Boxer but with a twist of Neapolitan Mastiff, and you’ve got the Neapolitan Boxer. These dogs inherit the best traits from both breeds, including loyalty, intelligence, and a calm demeanor. They’re larger than your average Boxer and carry the Mastiff’s distinctive relaxed attitude, making them less demanding in terms of exercise.
While they enjoy lounging around, they’ll eagerly join you for a walk. Their gentle nature makes them good with kids, but their size requires supervision. Apartment living can be a challenge due to their size, so a home with space is ideal.
3. Norfolk Terrier
The Norfolk Terrier, a spirited little dog from Great Britain, is as brave as they come. Standing just about 10 inches tall and weighing around 11-12 pounds, they might be small, but their personalities are huge.
They’re known for their tenacity, affection, and fearless nature. Norfolk Terriers are great with kids and other pets, making them wonderful family dogs. They adapt well to apartment living, thanks to their small size, but they have high energy levels that require regular walks and playtime.
2. Northern Inuit Dog
Fans of “Game of Thrones” might recognize the Northern Inuit Dog for its resemblance to wolves. These dogs are a mix, thought to include breeds like the Siberian Husky and Alaskan Malamute, but with no actual wolf DNA.
They’re friendly, social, and have a strong pack mentality, making them excellent family pets. They do well with children and other dogs but need plenty of space to burn off energy, making them less suited to apartment living.
I couldn’t resist because I’m a huge fan of the Game of Thrones books and television show. After they made their debut in the first season, I studied up on this breed and have been the proud owner of this wolf-like dog for ten years.
1. New Shep
This is a hybrid between a Newfoundland and a German Shepherd, combines the intelligence and loyalty of both breeds. These dogs are friendly, good-natured, and excel in families with kids. They inherit the Newfoundland’s love for water and the German Shepherd’s protective instincts.
New Sheps can be quite large, so they’re better suited for homes with yards. They’re adaptable and can live in apartments if they’re adequately exercised.
Final words
And there you have it, ten unique dog breeds that begin with N.
Remember, every dog has its unique personality and needs, so always consider your lifestyle and what you can offer your furry friend. Happy dog exploring!