If you’re familiar with dogs or a dog owner yourself, then you know that there are hundreds of breeds out there. Some people might be content with adopting the first pup they see in an animal shelter or a classic dog breed from a local breeder like a Labrador retriever, border collie, or another purebred dog.
Still, others want something more special—something unique and rare.
So if you’re one of these folks, this list is for you. Here are some breeds that start with the letter “V” and everything else we know about them:
The Valencian Terrier
The Valencian Terrier is a breed of small to medium-sized terrier that was developed in Spain. The name “Valencian” means “from Valencia”.
The Valencian Terrier is considered a rare breed. It has low population and limited distribution among dog owners. This terrier was developed by crossing the Dandie Dinmont with other breeds, such as Fox Terriers, Scottish terriers, and the Jack Russell Terrier.
The Spanish word “terrier” means “earth dog,” which refers to the tenacious hunting instincts that allow it to hunt prey underground.
The breed standard describes the Valencian Terrier as an energetic and intelligent breed, alert and friendly with humans but reserved with strangers. It has strong hunting instincts, so it does not make a good pet for homes with small pets such as cats or rabbits.
The AKC and FCI recognize this breed in the same colors black, white and tan. The FCI also recognizes the standard colors of red fawn, wheaten, blue wheaten, and tricolor (white/black/tan). The standard states that “the ideal height for this breed is not less than 10 inches (25 cm) and not more than 14 inches (35 cm), and the breed usually weighs between 4 and 7 kg (8.8–15.4 lb).
Västgötaspets or the Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund, also known as the Västgötaspets, is a medium-sized dog that originated in Sweden. It is believed that these dogs were brought to the country by Viking settlers and used as guard dogs and to help herd other livestock.
They are still used today for herding tasks, but they have also become popular as pets because of their affectionate personalities. The breed has some similarities with other herding breeds like the Border Collie, but instead of having rounded ears and a fox-like face, this breed sports a wedge-shaped head and pricked ears that stand up straight.
The breed’s coloration can be either black or gray, with tan markings on its face, legs, and body. Its double coat consists of long hair covering the body and short hair covering the neck, chest, and muzzle areas.
In addition to this, you will also find they have double coats that helps to keep them warm during winter months when temperatures drop below zero – perfect if you live somewhere that experiences harsh winters.
The Västgötaspets is an affectionate, loyal and intelligent dog. They are good with children and other pets in the family. It is an ideal companion for active families.
Västgötaspets love people and enjoy human company a lot. They are very active dogs that require a lot of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They do well in apartments or homes that don’t have yards to roam around in so long as their owners make sure they get enough exercise throughout the day.
Västgötaspets can live for up to 15 years if properly cared for by their owners with a healthy diet, proper exercise, and, of course, lots of love.
Vendeen Sheepdog
The Vendeen sheepdog is a French breed that originated in the Vendée region of France. It was developed as a herding dog similar to the Australian Cattle Dog and has also been used as a guard dog. The Vendeen Sheepdog is known for its strong work ethic and high energy level; it needs plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
If you’re considering adopting one of these intelligent dogs, it’s important to know what makes them unique so you can provide them with what they need to thrive in your home. Here are some tips on caring for the Vendeen Sheepdog:
- Early socialization is of utmost importance! This breed needs plenty of human interaction from an early age so they don’t become shy or fearful later in life. In fact, some experts suggest socializing puppies as much as possible during their first two years (until about 18 months old) before exposing them to new people or places because this period can help prevent fear-related behaviors later on down the line if done correctly!
- Teach basic commands like sit/stay/come when needed (and always use positive reinforcement). Because these dogs are bred primarily for herding tasks like rounding up livestock but also need companionship from people at home to build strong bonds with their owners.
The Vendeen Sheepdog is a great dog for the right owner. It is loyal and intelligent but a strong-willed breed with just enough independence to keep things interesting. They can be protective of their family and friendly towards strangers who come into their territory, generally displaying good manners at all times.
The Vendeen Sheepdog requires moderate exercise, grooming, and maintenance, so make sure you have time available for these activities before bringing one home!
Villano de Las Encartaciones
The Villano de Las Encartaciones are small to medium dog breeds that originated in Spain. It has short hair, long legs, and a long tail. Although it has an independent nature, these lovable and affectionate dogs also enjoy being around people. This breed can live as long as 14 years but may experience health problems like cataracts, deafness, hip dysplasia, and luxating patella (kneecap dislocation).
Vizsla
The Vizsla originated in Hungary and was bred as a hunting dog. Vizslas were originally bred to hunt upland game like pheasant, grouse, and quail in Hungary during the 10th century CE.
In fact, they’re sometimes called “The Hunting Dog of Kings.” While still popularly used for hunting today, they are also used as companion dogs—they make great family pets due to their friendly nature and their ability to get along with children and other pets.
They are also very easy to train with proper dog training classes; this makes them ideal for novice owners who want an athletic dog that will be great at obedience training or agility competitions!
The Vizsla has a short coat similar to that of a Weimaraner. A typical Vizsla has a silky coat, rust-color coat and copper highlights. Many Vizslas have white markings on their chests, tails, and toes as part of the breed standard. Vizslas have muscular bodies and weigh between 40 and 65 pounds when fully grown. They are medium-sized dogs, not too big or small for most homes.
They stand between 21 and 24 inches high at the shoulders, making them slightly smaller than an English pointer but taller than an Ibizan hound. Males tend to be large dogs compared to the females, but both sexes have lovely features making them unique and lovable.
The breed’s average lifespan is from 10 to 12 years. The Vizsla is a great family pet, but it’s not for everyone. Their smooth coat makes them easy to groom.
If you want a dog who will hunt and play with you outside but also curl up on the couch at home, then this might be the perfect breed for you. Check out the AKC or the Vizsla Club of America for more information on why we love the lovable Vizsla breed.
Valley Bulldog
The Valley Bulldog is a breed of American dog with a wide-ranging history. Originating in the early 1900s, the breed was developed from crosses between bull terriers and English Bulldogs to create a smaller, less aggressive dog that could be used as both a companion animal and a family protector.
The Valley Bulldog is similar to other breeds of bulldogs in terms of temperament and they are a muscular dog; however, they are known for being more intelligent than the American Bulldog due to breeding with the English Bulldog, which has given them more energy than other breeds.
Since they are wonderful pets, it’s not uncommon to see a Valley Bulldog in The United States
This pet dog need quite a bit of exercise per day: at least 30 minutes each day would be best, if not more time spent outside on walks or runs will give your dog enough exercise without overdoing it so much that they become exhausted before bedtime!
Valley Bulldogs have a wonderful temperament when properly socialized and get along well with all members of the family.
Volpino
The Volpino is a toy breed of dog that originated in Italy. Its name means “fox-terrier” in Italian, and it’s a descendant of the terriers that were brought to Italy by immigrants from Britain during the Middle Ages.
The breed was first registered as a distinct variety in 1884. The Volpino has been used as a hunter and guard dog, but today it’s mostly kept as a companion animal because it makes such an affectionate pet.
You may think that the Volpino is just a smaller version of the popular Pomeranian, but this breed is actually descended from an ancient line of dogs that predates even the Pomeranian.
According to Petmd “The Volpino Italiano is a direct descendent of Spitz-type dogs, which records show existed over 5,000 years ago. After breaking away from the Spitz breed, the Volpino Italiano became very popular in ancient Italy. “
The name “volpino” literally translates to “little fox,” which makes sense when you consider its fox-like appearance and behavior with a fox-like face, upright ears, and a long, bushy tail.
The volpino’s coat is white or cream in color and grows quite long. The eyes are usually brown but may be blue or hazel. Some dogs have one of each eye color; others have heterochromia iridum (two different colored eyes).
The Volpino was bred as a companion dog with high energy levels, so it’s not surprising that they require plenty of exercise. They’re also known for being smart dogs and easy to train because they love showing off their intelligence in fun ways—so be sure to keep them stimulated!
Volpino are known for being very loyal and affectionate toward their owners, as well as other people in their lives, including strangers. This is especially true of puppies, who may be shy at first but will warm up quickly after some time spent with you!
With their amiable personalities, small size, and low-maintenance coat, Volpino are generally considered to be healthy. However, it’s worth noting that the breed may be prone to cataracts and heart problems.
Volpini can also have patellar luxation (kneecap dislocation), which is a common condition in small dogs with short legs. A healthy, happy Volpino can live as long as 14-16 years.
If Your Dog is a Breed Starting with “V,” You’re One of the Lucky Few.
We hope you’ve enjoyed our deep dive into the world of dog breeds, starting with the letter “V.” If you have a “V-dog,” congratulations! You are one of the lucky few who will never be without a friend for life.
Check The American Kennel Club for more information. If your dog’ starting with “v” isn’t included in this list of dog breeds, but you think it should be, please let us know in the comments below.
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