Dog Breeds Beginning With V

Originally from Italy, the Volpino Italiano is a small, Spitz-type dog breed that barely reaches 11 lb (5 kg) in weight. This dog's main characteristic is its beautiful, long, thick and soft coat, which is white or red in color. It is often confused with the Pomeranian, although they are two distinct breeds. You can see the similarity in the photo below.

As for its temperament, the Volpino Italiano stands out for being a very cheerful, playful, active and affectionate dog. It is intelligent and can be very territorial. Proper training is necessary, always based on positive reinforcement to avoid behavioral problems and ensure their well-being. Due to the characteristics of its coat, it is important to maintain a proper weekly brushing routine to prevent matting.

Known as the Västgötaspets in Swedish, we know it as the Swedish Vallhund in English. It is also sometimes known as the Swedish Shepherd or the Visigoth Spitz. As these names collectively suggest, this V-breed is both from Sweden and originally used in herding livestock. They are an ancient dog breed which accompanied the Vikings in their settlement of England during the Middle Ages. They were valued for their herding and protection abilities.

The Swedish Vallhund is a small breed weighing with a compact and elongated body. Its legs are short, giving it a truly adorable appearance that may even remind us of a Corgi. The coat is moderately long, thick and close to the skin. It can be gray, yellowish, reddish or brown in color.

The temperament of the Swedish Vallhund is particularly calm. This dog is self-confident, intelligent and affectionate, loving to spend time with their family. They make the perfect companion for all types of people and families with children, as long as the kids learn to respect their boundaries.

Known in English as the East Siberian Laika, this dog breed beginning with a V originates in Russia. It is medium-sized and has a strong, compact body that is slightly longer than it is tall. Their coat is hard, straight, abundant and woolly. The most common color pattern is black and white or black and tan, but they can also be completely black or white. The photo shows a black and tan Vostotchno-Siberskaïa Laïka with a little white in its chest coat.

The breed was developed for hunting in Siberia and the Taiga region, resulting in this dog having and even more developed sense of smell than other breeds. It's a good idea to play scent games with them, as they will keep them stimulated and help strengthen the bond between dog and guardian. They generally tend to have a balanced temperament, being friendly and trusting with most people.

In addition to the Vostotchno-Siberskaïa Laïka, you can check out more Russian dog breeds in our related guide.

Also known as the Hungarian Pointer or Magyar Vizsla, the Vizsla should not be confused with the Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla which is a separate breed from the Vizsla. Despite their similarities, they are not closely related. This dog breed that starts with a V originated in Hungary primarily as a hunting dog. It is a medium-sized dog with an elegant demeanor.

Vizslas are characterized physically by a very short coat which is has a rusty golden color known as French-row yellow. They are a cheerful, active, friendly and easy-to-train dog, provided that respectful methods based on positive reinforcement are used. They require plenty of exercise to release accumulated tension, so it is not a dog suitable for sedentary people.

Also known as the Chitral Guard Dog, the Vikhan is originally from Pakistan. It is not an officially recognized breed by the International Canine Federation (FCI). It is used as a livestock guard dog, noted especially for its great intelligence and courage. It is a large dog with a strong and muscular body. It can have short or long hair, presenting in various solid or spotted color patterns. The photo depicts a cream specimen.

In addition to being a brave dog, the Vikhan is very territorial and can be wary of strangers. Proper socialization for dogs and a suitable training regimen are essential, ensuring they are always based on positive reinforcement.

Image: justdial.com

With the last dog breed beginning with V on our list, we find a relatively new dog that has not yet been officially recognized by the FCI, but has been by the Royal Canine Society of Spain (RSCE). The Valdueza is a Spanish dog that emerged from the cross between Podenco dogs and Mastiffs. Unfortunately, the purpose of this cross was for hunting. It is large in size and stands out for its hard and coarse white coat.

In terms of temperament, the Valdueza is a noble, calm and balanced dog that needs its daily dose of exercise to release pent-up energy. Despite being bred for hunting, this Spanish dog breed has become an excellent companion dog. Once their hunting usefulness has been expended, many of these dogs are abandoned. This has led a call to adopt them from shelters, especially in rural areas.

Another dog breed from Spain that begins with V is the Villano de Las Encartaciones. This is a Basque breed which is considered very rare and a Spanish dog in danger of extinction. It has been used for herding livestock is large in size. Serious conservation efforts are required to keep this indigenous dog alive, since only 200 specimens had been registered as late as 2009.

Image: vanitatis.elconfidencial.com

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