All Dog Breeds / Dog Breeds That Start With I
Dog Breeds That Start With I
Dog breeds that start with I include elegant gundogs, fluffy spitz breeds, and ancient protectors. This page lists every I-named breed in our directory—purebreds, crossbreeds, and rare dogs with rich histories. Whether you’re interested in an affectionate Irish Setter, a vocal Icelandic Sheepdog, or a loyal Indian Pariah Dog, you’ll find detailed breed profiles here. Each listing includes photos, size, temperament, grooming needs, and ideal home environments. Use filters to sort by energy level, size, or shedding—or scroll the full list alphabetically. If the dog you’re searching for starts with the letter I, your match may be just below.
All Dog Breeds That Start With I
Ibizan Hound
Icelandic Sheepdog (Íslenskur Fjárhundur)
Idaho Shag
Indian Pariah Dog (Desi)
Irish Doodle
Irish Red and White Setter
Irish Setter
Irish Terrier
Irish Water Spaniel
Irish Wolfhound
Italian Grey Min Pin
Italian Greyhound
Most Popular I Dog Breeds
These I-named dog breeds are some of the most well-known worldwide:
- Irish Setter – Elegant, red-coated gundog with a joyful nature
- Icelandic Sheepdog – Cheerful, vocal, and deeply loyal
- Irish Terrier – Brave, spirited, and full of character
- Irish Wolfhound – Towering hound with a gentle soul
- Indian Pariah Dog – Street-smart native dog of India, increasingly adopted as pets
Rare or Lesser-Known I Breeds
These I breeds are less common globally but deserve attention:
- Indian Pariah Dog – One of the oldest natural dog types
- Icelandic Sheepdog – Iceland’s only native breed
- Irish Water Spaniel – Curly-coated and athletic water retriever
- Istrian Shorthaired Hound – Sleek Croatian scent hound
- Irish Red and White Setter – Historic cousin of the Irish Setter, rarer in numbers
Purebred vs Hybrid Dog Breeds That Start With I
Purebred I Breeds: Irish Setter, Irish Wolfhound, Irish Terrier, Icelandic Sheepdog, Irish Water Spaniel
Hybrid I Breeds: Irish Doodle (Irish Setter Ă— Poodle), Irish Wolfoodle (Irish Wolfhound Ă— Poodle)
Purebreds follow kennel standards. Designer hybrids aim to combine family-friendly traits with low-shedding coats or calmer temperaments.
Which I Breed Matches Your Lifestyle?
| Goal | I Dog Breeds to Explore |
|---|---|
| Apartment-sized dog | Irish Terrier, Icelandic Sheepdog |
| Good with children | Irish Setter, Irish Doodle, Icelandic Sheepdog |
| Rare & underrated | Indian Pariah Dog, Irish Water Spaniel |
| Active & outdoorsy owner | Irish Setter, Irish Wolfhound, Irish Doodle |
| Low-shedding hybrid | Irish Doodle, Irish Wolfoodle |
FAQs About Dog Breeds That Start With I
What are the most popular dog breeds that start with I?
Popular I breeds include the Irish Setter, Irish Wolfhound, Irish Terrier, Icelandic Sheepdog, and Indian Pariah Dog. These dogs are known for loyalty, energy, and strong bonds with their families. Some are ideal for active lifestyles, while others are surprisingly calm at home.
Are there small dog breeds that start with I?
Yes. Small to medium I breeds include the Irish Terrier and Icelandic Sheepdog. Both are compact, alert, and family-friendly. These dogs are well-suited for homes with limited space, provided they get daily walks, attention, and early socialization.
Which large dog breeds start with the letter I?
Large I breeds include the Irish Wolfhound and Irish Setter. These dogs need plenty of room and daily exercise. Despite their size, they are often calm, gentle, and affectionate with family members, especially when properly trained and socialized.
What are some rare dog breeds that start with I?
Rare I dog breeds include the Irish Water Spaniel, Irish Red and White Setter, Icelandic Sheepdog, Indian Pariah Dog, and Istrian Shorthaired Hound. These breeds are less common but appreciated for their loyalty, endurance, and regional heritage.
Are there hybrid dog breeds that start with I?
Yes. Hybrid I-named dog breeds include the Irish Doodle and Irish Wolfoodle. These Poodle crosses aim to combine the joyful nature of Irish breeds with lower-shedding coats and trainable temperaments, making them ideal for allergy-sensitive homes or first-time owners.
Which I breeds are best for families?
Family-friendly I dog breeds include the Irish Setter, Icelandic Sheepdog, Irish Doodle, and Indian Pariah Dog. These dogs tend to be loyal, affectionate, and playful with children when given consistent socialization, moderate training, and daily exercise.
