Looking for dog breeds that start with B? This list covers 20 popular B dog breeds, from the cheerful Beagle and gentle Basset Hound to athletic Border Collies, elegant Borzoi, and powerful guardians like the Bullmastiff and Black Russian Terrier.
Some breeds that start with the letter B are small companion dogs. Others are medium sized working dogs, hunting dogs, herding dogs, or large guard dogs. Use this guide to compare size, coat type, grooming, exercise, energy, temperament, and the type of home each breed may enjoy.
20 Popular B Dog Breeds
Below is a complete list of dog breeds that start with B, based on the American Kennel Club, one of the most trusted organizations in the US for dog breed standards.
1. Beagle
Group: AKC Hound; Hunting
Height: 13–15 in
Weight: 20–30 lbs
Energy Level: High
Physical Characteristics: Compact, sturdy body with long ears and expressive eyes
Lifespan: 10–15 years
Color: Tricolor (black, white, tan), lemon, red and white
Shedding: Moderate
Bark: High; known for loud baying
Health: Generally healthy; watch for obesity and ear infections
The Beagle is one of the most familiar dog breeds that start with B. This small to medium dog is friendly, curious, and full of scent-driven energy.
Beagles were originally bred for hunting, and their nose still leads the way. They love to explore, sniff, and follow a trail, so a secure leash and regular exercise are important. Their short coat is easy to maintain, though those floppy ears need routine checks.
This breed can be great with children and other pets when socialized early. Beagles are smart, sweet, and lovable, but they can be stubborn when an interesting scent hits the ground. Training works best when it is consistent, upbeat, and food-motivated.
2. Border Collie
Group: AKC Herding
Height: 18–22 in
Weight: 30–55 lbs
Energy Level: Very high
Physical Characteristics: Lean, athletic build with intense gaze and agile movement
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Color: Black and white, merle, tricolor
Shedding: Moderate
Bark: Medium
Health: Generally healthy; watch for hip dysplasia and eye issues
The Border Collie is one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world. Originally developed along the border region between Scotland and England, this breed became famous for herding sheep and cattle with focus, speed, and control.
Border Collies are athletic, energetic, and extremely smart. They need exercise, mental stimulation, and training that gives their brain something to do. Many excel at agility, obedience, herding, tricks, and active work. This breed is best for active owners who enjoy training. A bored Border Collie will find a job, and you may not like the job it chooses.
3. Boston Terrier
Group: AKC Non-Sporting
Height: 15–17 in
Weight: 12–25 lbs
Energy Level: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Compact body, short muzzle, tuxedo-like coat
Lifespan: 11–13 years
Color: Black and white, brindle and white
Shedding: Low
Bark: Low
Health: Watch for breathing issues due to flat face
The Boston Terrier is a small, lively dog with upright ears, a smooth coat, and a tuxedo-like black-and-white pattern. Often called the "American Gentleman," this breed has a friendly, bright personality.
Boston Terriers usually enjoy people and can fit well in apartments. They are playful without being huge, funny without being wild, and affectionate without needing acres of space.
Because of their short nose, they need care in heat and hard exercise. Keep walks reasonable, watch breathing, and avoid overdoing it on hot days. Grooming is easy thanks to the smooth coat, but training and social time still matter.
4. Basset Hound
Group: AKC Hound
Height: Up to 15 in
Weight: 40–65 lbs
Energy Level: Low
Physical Characteristics: Long ears, droopy eyes, short legs
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Color: Tri-color, lemon, red and white
Shedding: Moderate
Bark: Deep and loud
Health: Prone to obesity and joint issues
The Basset Hound is famous for long ears, sad puppy eyes, a low body, and a powerful nose. This breed was developed to track scent close to the ground, which explains its short legs and determined hunting style.
Basset Hounds tend to have a gentle, affectionate nature. They are often good family dogs, but they are not always quick to obey. If a scent grabs their attention, they may pretend your voice no longer exists.
Their grooming needs are moderate. The short coat is simple, but the ears, skin folds, and weight need attention. Basset Hounds enjoy regular exercise, though they usually prefer steady walks over intense athletic play.
5. Boxer
Group: AKC Working
Height: 21.5–25 in
Weight: 50–80 lbs
Energy Level: High
Physical Characteristics: Muscular, square build with short coat
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Color: Fawn, brindle
Shedding: Low
Bark: Medium
Health: Watch for heart conditions and cancer
The Boxer is a muscular, playful dog with a square head, expressive face, and fun-loving personality. Boxers are often called goofy, loyal, protective, and full of life.
This breed has working and guarding history, but many modern Boxers are beloved family companions. They usually enjoy children and play, though their energy and size mean training is important.
Boxers need regular exercise, social time, and consistent training. Their smooth coat is easy to brush, but they can be sensitive to heat. For active families who want a big-hearted dog, the Boxer is a great breed to consider.
6. Bulldog
Group: AKC Non-Sporting
Height: 14–15 in
Weight: 40–50 lbs
Energy Level: Low
Physical Characteristics: Stocky body, wrinkled face, short muzzle
Lifespan: 8–10 years
Color: Brindle, white, fawn
Shedding: Moderate
Bark: Low
Health: Prone to breathing and skin issues
The Bulldog is a medium dog with a broad head, wrinkled face, sturdy body, and gentle expression. This breed is often calm, affectionate, and close to its people.
Bulldogs usually enjoy home life and do not need intense exercise. Short daily walks and careful weight control are helpful. Because of their body shape and short nose, heat, breathing, and skin care need attention.
Grooming is simple, but face folds should stay clean and dry. Bulldogs can be sweet companions for people who want a slower-paced dog, but health care should be part of the decision from day one.
7. Bernese Mountain Dog
Group: AKC Working
Height: 23–27.5 in
Weight: 70–115 lbs
Energy Level: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Large, sturdy body with thick coat
Lifespan: 7–10 years
Color: Tri-color
Shedding: High
Bark: Low
Health: Prone to joint issues and cancer
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, beautiful breed with a thick double coat, calm eyes, and classic black, rust, and white color. This mountain dog was originally used for farm work, cart pulling, and guarding in Switzerland.
Bernese Mountain Dogs are often gentle, affectionate, and devoted to their people. Their size makes them impressive, but their sweet personality is what wins many pet parents over.
This breed needs space, grooming, and cool places to rest. Weekly brushing helps manage the dense coat, and more brushing is needed when shedding picks up. They can be wonderful family dogs, but their large size means food, vet care, dog beds, and car space all take planning.
8. Belgian Malinois
Group: AKC Herding
Height: 22–26 in
Weight: 40–80 lbs
Energy Level: Very high
Physical Characteristics: Lean, athletic build
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Color: Fawn with black mask
Shedding: Moderate
Bark: Medium
Health: Generally healthy
The Belgian Malinois is an intelligent, athletic working dog from Belgium. It is often used in police, military, sport, and protection work because of its drive, speed, and trainability.
This breed has a strong work ethic and high energy. It needs advanced training, regular exercise, mental stimulation, and experienced handling. A Malinois is not usually the right dog for a casual home that wants an easy companion.
The short coat is simple to groom, but the mind and body need serious commitment. For the right owner, this breed can be brilliant. For the wrong home, it can be overwhelming.
9. Bichon Frise
Group: AKC Non-Sporting
Height: 9.5–11.5 in
Weight: 12–18 lbs
Energy Level: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Small, fluffy coat
Lifespan: 14–15 years
Color: White
Shedding: Low
Bark: Medium
Health: Generally healthy
The Bichon Frise is a small dog with a curly white coat, dark eyes, and a cheerful face. This breed has roots in companion-dog history and is often linked with France and nearby Mediterranean regions.
Bichons are lively, affectionate, and often good for apartment life. They tend to enjoy people, playtime, and attention. Their bright personality makes them feel like little entertainers at home.
The curly coat is beautiful, but grooming is non-negotiable. Regular brushing, trimming, and professional grooming help prevent mats and keep the coat clean. For people who want a small, sweet dog with a happy nature, the Bichon Frise is a strong pick.
10. Border Terrier
Group: AKC Terrier
Height: 12–15 in
Weight: 11–16 lbs
Energy Level: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Small, wiry coat
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Color: Red, wheaten, grizzle
Shedding: Low
Bark: Medium
Health: Generally healthy
The Border Terrier is a tough yet friendly small dog. It is adaptable, making it suitable for both city and country living. This breed is affectionate, easygoing, and good with families.
11. Borzoi
Group: AKC Hound; Hunting
Height: 26–28 in
Weight: 60–105 lbs
Energy Level: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Tall, slender body with long legs and silky coat
Lifespan: 9–14 years
Color: White, black, tan, or mixed
Shedding: Moderate
Bark: Low
Health: Watch for bloat and heart conditions
The Borzoi is an elegant sight hound with a long body, narrow head, silky coat, and graceful movement. This breed was originally bred for hunting large game across open ground.
Borzoi dogs can be calm indoors and athletic outdoors. They often have a sensitive, dignified nature and may be reserved with strangers.
Their coat needs brushing, and their exercise should include safe chances to run in enclosed spaces. Because they are sight hounds, they may chase small animals. A Borzoi is best for people who enjoy quiet elegance and understand hound instincts.
12. Bullmastiff
Group: AKC Working; Guarding
Height: 24–27 in
Weight: 100–130 lbs
Energy Level: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Large, muscular body with broad head
Lifespan: 7–10 years
Color: Fawn, red, brindle
Shedding: Moderate
Bark: Low
Health: Prone to joint issues and bloat
The Bullmastiff is a large dog with a calm face, muscular build, and guarding history. This breed was developed in Britain to help guard estates, and that protective instinct still shapes its nature.
Bullmastiffs tend to be loyal, affectionate, and steady with their families. They may be reserved with strangers, so early socialization matters.
Although they are big, they do not need endless running. Regular exercise, weight control, and training are enough for many adults. Their smooth coat is easy to brush, but their size means they need space, strong equipment, and responsible handling.
13. Bedlington Terrier
Group: AKC Terrier
Height: 15–17.5 in
Weight: 17–23 lbs
Energy Level: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Curly, lamb-like coat and arched back
Lifespan: 11–16 years
Color: Blue, liver, sandy
Shedding: Low
Bark: Medium
Health: Watch for liver disease
The Bedlington Terrier stands out for its unique appearance, often compared to a lamb. Despite its soft look, it is lively and brave like most terriers. This breed has a hypoallergenic coat, making it a good option for some allergy sufferers. Bedlingtons are affectionate and playful but also independent. They need regular grooming and moderate exercise. This breed adapts well to family life.
14. Brittany
Group: AKC Sporting; Hunting
Height: 17.5–20.5 in
Weight: 30–40 lbs
Energy Level: High
Physical Characteristics: Compact, athletic build with feathered coat
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Color: Orange and white, liver and white
Shedding: Moderate
Bark: Medium
Health: Generally healthy
The Brittany is an athletic bird dog with lively energy, a medium sized body, and a friendly expression. This breed was developed in France and is still loved by hunters and active families.
Brittany dogs are smart, eager, and energetic. They enjoy training, field work, fetch, and long outdoor days. They are often affectionate with people and may be good family dogs when given enough exercise.
Their coat is moderate and usually easy to maintain with brushing. A Brittany needs regular exercise and mental stimulation. Without enough activity, that bright energy can turn into restlessness.
15. Black Russian Terrier
Group: AKC Working; Guarding
Height: 26–30 in
Weight: 80–130 lbs
Energy Level: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Large, powerful body with dense black coat
Lifespan: 10–12 years
Color: Black
Shedding: Low
Bark: Medium
Health: Watch for hip and elbow dysplasia
The Black Russian Terrier is a powerful working dog with a thick black coat, strong body, and serious guarding background. This breed was developed in Russia from several breeds to create a confident, protective, and versatile dog.
Black Russian Terriers are intelligent and loyal, but they are not casual beginner dogs. Their size, strength, and guarding instincts require experienced dog owners, early socialization, and consistent training.
The coat needs grooming and brushing to maintain. These dogs also need regular exercise and mental work. In the right home, a Black Russian Terrier can be a devoted guardian and steady companion.
16. Brussels Griffon
Group: AKC Toy
Height: 7–10 in
Weight: 8–12 lbs
Energy Level: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Small body with expressive face
Lifespan: 12–15 years
Color: Red, black, belge
Shedding: Low
Bark: Medium
Health: Watch for breathing issues
The Brussels Griffon is a small dog from Belgium with a big expression and a lively personality. Some have a rough coat, while others have a smooth coat.
This breed is often affectionate, alert, and close to its people. Brussels Griffons can do well in apartments, but they still need daily walks and social time.
Their grooming depends on coat type. Rough-coated dogs need more maintenance, while smooth-coated dogs are easier to brush. This small breed often bonds deeply and may prefer homes where people are around often.
17. Biewer Terrier
Group: AKC Toy
Height: 7–11 in
Weight: 4–8 lbs
Energy Level: Moderate
Physical Characteristics: Long, silky coat with colorful markings
Lifespan: 14–16 years
Color: White, black, tan
Shedding: Low
Bark: Medium
Health: Generally healthy
The Biewer Terrier is a tiny, elegant breed with silky hair and a bright toy-dog personality. Its long, flowing coat and lively expression make it stand out among small dog breeds that start with B.
Biewer Terriers are usually affectionate and playful. They can do well in apartments and small homes, as long as they still get walks, play, and training. Tiny dogs need structure too.
Their silky coat needs regular grooming to stay neat. Some pet parents keep the coat long, while others choose a shorter puppy cut for easier care. This breed is a good fit for people who want a small, loving dog that enjoys being close.
18. Blue Picardy Spaniel
Group: AKC Sporting; Hunting
Height: 22–24 in
Weight: 45–60 lbs
Energy Level: High
Physical Characteristics: Strong build with wavy coat
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Color: Blue-gray with black patches
Shedding: Moderate
Bark: Medium
Health: Generally healthy
The Blue Picardy Spaniel is a skilled hunting dog with a calm and gentle personality. It is less common in the US but valued for its versatility and loyalty. This breed enjoys outdoor activities and works well with hunters. At home, it is affectionate and relaxed, making it a balanced companion.
19. Bearded Collie
Group: AKC Herding
Height: 20–22 in
Weight: 45–55 lbs
Energy Level: High
Physical Characteristics: Shaggy coat and lively expression
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Color: Gray, black, brown
Shedding: Moderate
Bark: Medium
Health: Generally healthy
The Bearded Collie is a lively herding breed from Scotland with long hair, a bouncy spirit, and a friendly face. Beardies were originally bred to help move cattle and sheep, and that working history still shows in their energy.
This medium sized breed is smart, athletic, and playful. Bearded Collies tend to enjoy family life, but they need exercise, training, and room to use their body and mind.
That flowing coat is part of their charm, but it takes work. Regular brushing helps prevent tangles and keeps the dog comfortable. If you want a fun-loving herding dog with a big personality, the Bearded Collie can be a wonderful friend.
20. Belgian Tervuren
Group: AKC Herding
Height: 22–26 in
Weight: 45–75 lbs
Energy Level: Very high
Physical Characteristics: Elegant build with long coat
Lifespan: 12–14 years
Color: Mahogany with black overlay
Shedding: Moderate
Bark: Medium
Health: Generally healthy
The Belgian Tervuren is an intelligent and alert herding dog. It is closely related to the Belgian Shepherd Dog family and shares similar working traits. This breed is loyal, trainable, and highly active. It needs regular mental and physical stimulation to thrive. Best suited for experienced owners who can provide structure and engagement.
Best B Dog Breeds by Lifestyle
Best B Dog Breeds for Families
If you want a friendly family dog, consider the Beagle, Bernese Mountain Dog, Boxer, Bichon Frise, Basset Hound, or Brittany. These breeds can be affectionate and good with people when trained and socialized well.
Best B Dog Breeds for Apartments
Apartment-friendly B breeds may include the Boston Terrier, Bichon Frise, Biewer Terrier, Brussels Griffon, Bulldog, and Basenji. Small size helps, but barking, exercise, and personality matter too.
Best Large B Dog Breeds
Large B dog breeds include Bernese Mountain Dog, Black Russian Terrier, Bullmastiff, Bloodhound, Borzoi, Belgian Malinois, and Beauceron. Big dogs need space, training, strong equipment, and careful health planning.
Best B Dog Breeds for Active Owners
Border Collie, Brittany, Boxer, Bearded Collie, Basenji, Belgian Malinois, Beauceron, and Bull Terrier can suit active households. These dogs enjoy exercise and may need a job, sport, or daily training routine.
Best B Dog Breeds for Experienced Dog Owners
Black Russian Terrier, Belgian Malinois, Beauceron, Borzoi, Basenji, Bull Terrier, and Bullmastiff are often better for experienced owners. Their energy, size, independence, sensitivity, guarding instincts, or training needs can be too much for beginners.
FAQs
What type of dog starts with the letter B?
There are many types of dog breeds that start with B, including hunting dogs like the Beagle, herding dogs like the Border Collie, companion dogs like the Bichon Frise, and working dogs like the Belgian Malinois and Bullmastiff. Each type was bred for a specific purpose, such as hunting, herding, or guarding.
What is the most popular B dog breed?
The Beagle, Boxer, Boston Terrier, Bulldog, Bernese Mountain Dog, and Border Collie are among the better-known B dog breeds in the US. Popularity can change by year, location, and owner lifestyle.
Which B dog breeds need the most exercise?
Border Collie, Brittany, Boxer, Belgian Malinois, Bearded Collie, Beauceron, and Basenji usually need regular exercise and mental stimulation. These breeds are better for people who enjoy training, play, and active routines.
What dog sheds the least?
Breeds like the Bichon Frise and Bedlington Terrier are known for having a hypoallergenic coat, which means they shed less than many other dogs. However, no dog is completely non-shedding, and regular grooming is still needed.
Conclusion
There are many amazing dog breeds that start with B, each with its own personality, needs, and lifestyle fit. From the playful Beagle to the intelligent Border Collie and the loyal Bernese Mountain Dog, these dogs can become wonderful companions when matched with the right home.
