breed of dog crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "breed of dog crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you through your puzzle.
Solutions for "breed of dog crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
LAB: Short for Labrador Retriever, a popular family dog, known for its friendly nature and versatility.
5 Letters
BOXER: A medium-sized, short-haired breed of dog, developed in Germany, known for its playful and energetic nature.
6 Letters
POODLE: A water dog breed, known for its curly coat, high intelligence, and elegant appearance. Comes in various sizes.
BEAGLE: A small to medium-sized hound, famous for its exceptional scent-tracking ability and melodic bark, often used in hunting.
COLLIE: A distinctive type of herding dog, originating in Scotland, known for its loyalty and long coat (as in the Rough Collie).
SETTER: A type of gundog bred to "set" or crouch when it finds game, popular breeds include Irish and English Setters.
7 Letters
TERRIER: A type of dog originally bred for hunting vermin, known for being feisty, energetic, and often having wiry coats.
MASTIFF: A very large, powerful type of dog, often with a stocky build and large head, historically used as guard dogs.
8 Letters
AIREDALE: The largest of the terrier breeds, often called the "King of Terriers," known for its versatile hunting and guarding abilities.
SHEEPDOG: A general term for a dog bred to herd sheep or other livestock, such as the Old English Sheepdog.
9 Letters
RETRIEVER: A type of gundog that retrieves game for a hunter, including popular breeds like the Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever.
DACHSHUND: A short-legged, long-bodied hound-type dog, bred in Germany to scent, chase, and flush out badgers and other burrow-dwelling animals.
More About "breed of dog crossword clue"
Dog breeds are a perennial favorite in crossword puzzles, and for good reason. Their sheer variety in size, shape, temperament, and origin provides setters with a vast lexicon of potential answers. From the diminutive PUG to the majestic GREATDANE, each breed carries unique characteristics that can be cleverly woven into clues. Crossword constructors often rely on a breed's most defining features, such as a curly coat (POODLE), hunting prowess (BEAGLE, HOUND), or country of origin (TERRIER, DALMATIAN).
Understanding the common categories of dog breeds can also be incredibly useful. For instance, knowing that a 'terrier' is a type of dog, and then thinking of specific terrier breeds like AIREDALE or CAIRN, can unlock a clue. Similarly, clues might point to working dogs, toy breeds, or hounds. Sometimes, the clue might be a play on words or a characteristic unique to a specific breed, such as a dog "with spots" (DALMATIAN).
When you encounter a "breed of dog" clue, consider the letter count first, then brainstorm well-known breeds that fit. Think about popular household pets, but also be prepared for less common but distinct breeds. Familiarity with dog shows, historical uses of breeds, and even dog-related idioms can give you the edge you need to solve these clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters Carefully: Always start by counting the exact number of squares in the puzzle. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for "breed of dog" clues.
- Consider Common & Specific Traits: Does the clue mention a country ("French dog"), a coat type ("wiry-haired dog"), a size ("lap dog"), or a function ("herding dog")? These details are crucial for identifying the specific breed.
- Look for Plurals or Abbreviations: Sometimes the answer might be a plural (e.g., POODLES) or a common abbreviation (e.g., LAB for Labrador). Check if the clue suggests this.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to guess the entire word at once. Fill in any letters you can from intersecting clues. Even one letter can often point you towards the correct dog breed.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While common breeds like LAB or POODLE are frequent answers, setters also enjoy using less common breeds like SHIHTZU or BASSET. Expand your knowledge of dog breeds over time.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I identify a dog breed in a crossword clue?
When encountering a 'breed of dog' clue, look for hints about the dog's size, origin (e.g., 'Scottish dog'), famous characteristics (e.g., 'curly-coated dog'), or specific functions (e.g., 'hunting dog'). Sometimes, parts of the breed's name might be hinted at. Consider common breeds that fit the letter count.
What if the clue asks for a 'type of dog' instead of a 'breed'?
If the clue specifies 'type' rather than 'breed,' the answer might be a broader category or group of dogs. Examples include HOUND, TERRIER, SPANIEL, RETRIEVER, SHEEPDOG, or POINTER. Pay close attention to the wording of the clue to determine if a specific breed or a general classification is required.
Why are dog breeds so common in crosswords?
Dog breeds are a popular crossword topic due to their wide variety in names, origins, and lengths, which provides setters with ample flexibility. Many breeds are globally recognized, making them accessible to a broad range of solvers. Their distinct characteristics also allow for creative and specific clueing.