7 Coolest Breeds of Dogs with Long Body Type (Photos)
Welcome to the wonderful world of long-bodied dogs! These elongated canine companions have a unique charm all their own, turning heads and warming hearts wherever they go.
From lounging on the couch like a stretched-out slinky to scooting through the grass like a furry caterpillar, these pups have a special appeal that’s impossible to resist.
In this listicle, we’ll introduce you to some of the most delightful dog breeds with long bodies, spicing things up with fun and engaging facts. So buckle up and prepare for a rollercoaster of adorable, elongated doggos!
1. Dachshund
First up is the iconic Dachshund, affectionately known as the “wiener dog” due to its sausage-like shape. Originally bred in Germany for hunting badgers, these tenacious little pups are as courageous as they are adorable.
With their long bodies, short legs, and big personalities, Dachshunds make fantastic family pets. Fun fact: Dachshunds have a surprising bark for their size, which is powerful and deep, often catching people off guard!
2. Basset Hound
The Basset Hound’s long, droopy ears and soulful eyes are simply irresistible. These scent hounds were bred in France for hunting small game.
Their long bodies and short legs allow them to move through dense underbrush with ease. Bassets are known for their incredible sense of smell, second only to the Bloodhound
3. Corgi
There are two types of Corgis: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. Both breeds boast long bodies and short legs, making them undeniably adorable. Originally bred for herding cattle in Wales, Corgis are intelligent, loyal, and full of energy.
Fun fact: Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a special connection with the British royal family, particularly Queen Elizabeth II, who has owned more than 30 Corgis during her reign!
4. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier, with its unique “weasel-like” appearance, is both distinctive and endearing. This small, long-bodied breed hails from the border region between England and Scotland.
Dandie Dinmonts were bred for hunting badgers and otters, thanks to their flexible spines and tenacious spirits. Known for their distinctive “top-knot” hairstyle, these charming terriers make excellent companions with their affectionate and friendly personalities.
5. Skye Terrier
Originating from the Isle of Skye in Scotland, the Skye Terrier is a small, long-bodied breed with a distinctive, flowing coat.
These terriers were initially bred for hunting vermin and small game. Known for their loyalty and devotion, Skye Terriers make excellent family pets
6. Swedish Vallhund
The Swedish Vallhund, also known as the “Viking dog,” is a small, long-bodied herding breed with a striking resemblance to the Corgi.
These energetic and intelligent dogs originated in Sweden, where they were used for herding cattle and protecting farms. Their unique, wolf-like appearance and spunky personalities make them a fantastic addition to active families.
Fun fact: Swedish Vallhunds have a wide range of coat colors, including gray, red, and sable, with various patterns and markings!
7. Shih Tzu
Though not as elongated as some of the other breeds on this list, the Shih Tzu is still a long-bodied lapdog that deserves a mention.
With their origins in Tibet and China, these little dogs were bred to be companions for royalty.
Their luxurious coats and regal bearing make them look like small lions, but their affectionate and friendly natures prove that they’re all about love. Fun fact: Shih Tzu means “lion dog” in Chinese, which is quite fitting for their appearance and history!
Ranked Long Body Dogs
| Breed | Length (out of 5) | Rarity (out of 5) |
| Dachshund | ★★★★★ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Basset Hound | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ |
| Pembroke Welsh Corgi | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Cardigan Welsh Corgi | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Dandie Dinmont Terrier | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Skye Terrier | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★★ |
| Swedish Vallhund | ★★★☆☆ | ★★★★☆ |
| Shih Tzu | ★★☆☆☆ | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Please note that the rankings are subjective and may vary depending on individual dogs and breeding lines. The length rating is based on how elongated their bodies are relative to other breeds, while the rarity rating is based on how commonly they are found as pets or in breed-specific populations.
SHORT Dogs with fairly long bodies
While some breeds may not have the elongated bodies that we explored earlier, they certainly make up for it with their adorably short legs. Here’s a list of 15 delightful dog breeds known for their short stature:
French Bulldog: These popular companions have a stocky build and short legs, giving them a distinctive and lovable appearance.
Pug: With their wrinkled faces and curled tails, Pugs are easily recognizable, but their short legs also add to their charm.
English Bulldog: The strong and muscular English Bulldog has short, sturdy legs that contribute to their distinctive gait.
Scottish Terrier: The “Scottie” is known for its strong, short legs that make it a versatile and agile hunter, as well as an affectionate companion.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: This regal toy breed has a small, compact body and short legs, making it an elegant and loving lapdog.
Lhasa Apso: Originating in Tibet, the Lhasa Apso has a long, flowing coat and short legs, which make it well-suited for the cold mountainous regions it calls home.
West Highland White Terrier: Also known as the “Westie,” this small terrier breed has short legs that provide it with agility and speed, perfect for catching vermin.
Shih Tzu: The charming Shih Tzu may not have an elongated body, but its short legs are perfect for navigating life as a companion dog.
Pekingese: With their lion-like appearance, Pekingese have short legs and a regal demeanor, making them ideal companions for royalty.
Dachshund: Although we’ve mentioned them before for their long bodies, Dachshunds also have notably short legs that give them their iconic appearance.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Like their Cardigan Welsh Corgi cousins, Pembroke Welsh Corgis are famous for their short legs and herding abilities.
Cardigan Welsh Corgi: Alongside their Pembroke relatives, Cardigan Welsh Corgis are another breed boasting short legs and a herding background.
Basset Hound: Known for their droopy ears and long bodies, Basset Hounds also have remarkably short legs that make them great hunters in dense underbrush.
Bichon Frise: This fluffy, white breed has short legs that add to its playful and affectionate nature.
Maltese: As a small, elegant toy breed, the Maltese has short legs that complement its loving and gentle temperament.
