Rare Dog Breeds You'll Love Uncommon Canines That Catch the Eye

The dog is one of the most beloved animals on earth. Of the over 150 breeds currently recognized by the American Kennel Club, most people are familiar with a good number of them, especially the popular breeds like the Labrador Retriever, the Golden Retriever, the Poodle, and the German Shepherd. However, there are also dogs out there that most people don’t even know exist. These rare dog breeds are a wonder to behold, and owning one will likely earn you lots of attention when out on walks or during visits to the park. If an eye-catching companion appeals to you, consider one of these exceptional dogs.

Beauceron

These French herding dogs are rarely seen within the United States, but if you can find one, they make excellent pets and courageous watch dogs. Beaucerons are intelligent, easy to train, and friendly, and their tall and muscular build comes in handy during guard duty.

Finnish Spitz

The Finnish Spitz has been the national dog of Finland since 1979, and in their native land they are still mostly used for hunting. This breed is very friendly and gentle with children, so they also make good pets. The Finnish Spitz is a medium size dog and resembles a large fox with a curled tail and golden-red coat.

Komondor

The Komondor is a striking dog. First, they are gigantic, weighing up to 125 pounds as adults. Second, they are covered in huge amounts of white, corded hair that resembles dreadlocks. The extraordinary appearance of these dogs matches their idiosyncratic personalities; they are serious and independent, and make better guard dogs than family dogs. However, if socialized early, they are capable of living a domestic life.

Kuvasz

The large, white Kuvasz was nearly extinct after World War II, but a few survivors revived the breed, and they have since become a rare but highly sought after companion dog. These dogs have a great sense of humor and are highly intelligent, but with that intelligence comes an independent streak that can make training more challenging. However, they make great pets and vigilant guard dogs if taught not to be too aggressive or territorial.

Löwchen

These “little lion dogs” have a history going back to the 1500s, when artists like Francisco de Goya featured them in his paintings. After the two World Wars the breed nearly went extinct, and in 1960 was named the rarest breed. There are more of these dogs now, but the breed is still unique. The Löwchen is friendly, playful, and responds well to training, and makes a good guard dog with an intense bark that will warn of any danger.

Otterhound

A large and shaggy dog, the Otterhound is a cross between the Bloodhound and the rough-haired Terriers, Griffons, and Harriers. These dogs were once popular among British royalty, and served as hunting dogs who went after -- what else -- otters. Today, these dogs are relatively rare but make excellent companion pets with jovial, affectionate, and devoted personalities.

Sealyham Terrier

The Sealyham Terrier originated in Wales, and since its official recognition in 1923 the breed’s numbers have dropped significantly. Once used as a working dog, the Sealyham Terrier makes an excellent family pet if you can find one. These small dogs are loyal, loving, and friendly, but may be wary of strangers. Training can help to reign in any stubbornness that is sometimes seen in this breed.

Alaskan Klee Kai

The Alaskan Klee Kai is a breed similar to the Spitz, developed in the 70's to be similar to a Husky, but more managable in size. They are traditionally an energetic, smart, and friendly breed, with a knockout personality befitting a dog that cute. And, given their pocket size, the Klee Kai is perfect for anyone looking for a sled dog they can fit in their studio apartment.

A few more to the list.

Ten of the rarest breeds of dogs!

These days, you will find almost everyone owning a dog and taking it for a walk. However, there are dozens of breeds of dogs that we will not see taking a stroll on the sidewalk. There are so many rare breeds of dogs that we have never heard of but are found in different locales from around the world. Let us look at the list of ten of the rarest breeds of dogs and see if you can identify any one of them.

1. Fila Brasileiro
   The origin of Fila Brasileiro is said to have come from the breeds of Mastiff and bloodhound. These origins explain why Fila Brasileiro has large bones, loose skin, and a smooth coat. This breed of dog is extremely rare and is known for its tracking abilities. However, beware since they are also known for their aggression.
2. Catalburun
   Do you know what is so rare about this breed? This is the only breed of dog in the world to have a split nose and suspended ears. They were bred in Turkey for hunting and are one of the rarest breeds found in the world.
3. New Guinea Singing Dog
   Just as the name suggests, this breed of dog is known for its unique vocal abilities. However, the one reason why this breed of dog is so loved is that it is an excellent companion and is intelligent with admirable physical ability.
4. Carolina Dog
   The Carolina Dog is also known as the American Dingo. It was once a wild and free-roaming dog until it was discovered in the swamps of Cypress. It is not bred in captivity and is quite rare to find.
5. Karelian Bear Dog
   The Karelian Bear Dog is quite famous for its quick reflexes and fearless nature. It is a popular choice amongst the big-game hunters for this reason.
6. Stabyhoun
   This breed of dog comes from the Netherlands. Today, there are less than 4,000 Stabyhouns in existence. This breed of dog is known for its excellent hunting and guarding skills. They are also great at catching moles and rats.
7. Mudi
   Mudi is a Hungarian herding dog with so many qualities that you would want to keep it with you forever. However, they love being somebody's pet and going out for long walks or jogs. They love to run around and play in large fields.
8. Lagotto Romagnolo
   Lagotto Romagnolo is a breed of dog that comes from a sub-region of Italy. It was traditionally used as a gun dog. The best thing that this breed loves is truffle hunting.
9. Azawakh
   Azawakh is a South African sighthound that is known to be a fierce companion and guardian. It looks very elegant with a short and beautiful coat.
10. Thai Ridgeback
    Thie feature that makes the Thai Ridgeback unique is its ridge of hair that grows in the opposite direction of its coat. There are only two other breeds of dogs that have this unique feature. These were some of the rarest breeds of dogs in the world. Would you like to pet one or all of them?

For more rare breeds and popular ones, too, head over to our Dog Breed Guides.

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