20 Rare Dog Breeds

Introduction: What Makes a Dog Breed Rare?

Worldwide, there are hundreds of dog breeds, with kennel clubs recognizing more than 800 breeds across the globe. They cover a range of sizes, colors, and temperaments. While breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and Poodles are undoubtedly the most popular, designer dogs like crosses of Poodles and Chihuahuas are also in vogue. 

On the other hand, traditional breeds are becoming rare, and some are even endangered. Breeds like Skye Terrier, Lagotto Romagnolo, Norwegian Lundehund, Otterhound, etc., might even become extinct over the next decade. So, what makes a breed rare?

What Do Rare Dog Breeds Mean?

A rare or obscure dog breed is a breed that is difficult to find. It has a significantly lower population compared to other popular dog breeds. It generally has fewer breeders working for its revival and limited breeding programs. Factors like obsolete working purpose, lesser demand for the dogs, lack of novelty or ‘cute’ traits, perceived unsuitability, and specific health issues could have contributed to the breed’s dwindling numbers.

If you plan to buy or adopt a rare dog breed, you are in for various benefits. Not only can your dog be an excellent conversation starter, but you also contribute to the breed’s preservation and survival.

20 Rare Dog Breeds You Should Know

Azawakh (aka Tuareg Sloughi)

The Azawakh is an African sighthound and a descendant of the pariah dogs from the Saharan Sahel region. The breed gets its name from the valley where tribes like the Tuareg lived. They used these dogs for guarding livestock and coursing game.

Azawakhs are elegant, lean dogs that move with a light, graceful gait. They are available in colors like brindle, white, black, dark red, gray, shades of brown, and parti-color. Azawakhs are relatively calm indoors, but they have tremendous energy and endurance. They also have a strong prey drive, so a tall fenced yard is a must. 

Azawakhs bond strongly with their owners, and their protective nature and aloofness towards strangers make them excellent protection dogs. Azawakhs need a lot of daily running or walking, without which they can get lethargic. Owners must also provide their Azawakh with consistent and ongoing socialization. Their close coat needs regular brushing and once-a-month baths. Life expectancy of the breed is 12-15 years.

Thai Ridgeback

Thai Ridgebacks were first seen in Eastern Thailand, and the breed has been referenced in literature dating back to the 17th century. There is no evidence that they are related to the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed. 

Thai Ridgebacks have muscular bodies with a wedge-shaped head. They come in black, red, blue, or fawn solid coats. This is a clean breed that sheds very little. They are intelligent and obedient dogs but tend to have a strong hunting instinct. They are protective of their humans and are known to be aggressive with other dogs. Their lifespan is about 12-13 years.

Norwegian Lundehund (aka Norsk Lundehund or Norwegian Puffin Dog)

Norwegian Lundehunds were first bred in the 1600s in Norway. They were used for hunting puffins. Two reasons led to the breed’s extinction: new methods were developed to hunt puffins, and a dog tax levied by the country led to a loss of interest in these dogs. It is estimated that only 250 Norwegian Lundehunds are present in the USA.

Lundehunds have several unique physical traits: an additional toe on each foot, double dewclaws on the forefeet, 360-degree swiveling ears, and a greater range of motion in the joints. They are available in black, reddish-brown, white, or gray coats.

According to WebMD, Lundehunds are affectionate dogs. They are also protective without being clingy. They have moderate, well-balanced temperaments – not too aloof or overly friendly. Their short, double coat is low maintenance. Norwegian Lundehunds have a lifespan of 12-14 years.

Mudi (aka Hungarian Mudi or Canis Ovilis Fenyesi)

The Mudi is a versatile, medium-sized Hungarian farm dog available in black, blue-merle, ashen brown, and piebald colors. They were developed to exterminate rodents and also used for herding and guarding flocks. Mudis have versatile talents and pleasant dispositions but are not as popular as other Hungarian dogs like the Puli and Komondor.

Mudis are highly trainable and energetic and excel in agility and obedience. They make wonderful companions for active individuals and families with kids. Due to their rarity, they are not commonly found outside their native Hungary. No more than a few thousand Mudis are available worldwide. The lifespan of the Mudi is 13-14 years.

Otterhound

Otterhounds are one of the rarest scenthound breeds. Fewer than 60 puppies are registered by kennel clubs each year. The hardy, tousled-haired hounds were kept by King John for finding otters that were depleting the fish in local streams.

Otterhounds love to hunt, sniff, trail, and swim. As a packhound, they are friendly with other dogs. During training, they tend to show a stubborn streak and are particularly determined when following a scent.

At home, Otterhounds tend to be boisterous, amiable with kids, and affectionate with family. Note that their loud, melodious voices can carry over long distances. This, their large size, and high energy needs make them unsuitable for apartment dwelling. Otterhounds need daily exercise in a safe, enclosed area, and their long coats require weekly brushing.

Xoloitzcuintli (aka Mexican Hairless Dog, Xolo, or Tepeizeuintli)

This is easily one of the weird dog breeds.

The breed’s name is derived from the Aztec god, Xolotl, and the word itzcuintli, which stands for dog. The AKC recognized the breed in 2011 as the Mexican Hairless. Throughout history, the Xoloitzcuintli was developed for companionship, although the Aztec, Mayan, and Toltec people might have used them for other purposes, as well. 

Xoloitzcuintlis are extremely sensitive to heat and cold and are primarily indoor dogs. They are also prone to skin lacerations, especially in the heat, and need skin lotions and sunscreen to keep their skin healthy. They sweat through their skin, unlike other dogs, and therefore, do not pant as much as other dogs.

Xolos are good with kids, but you should always supervise and educate kids to ensure they do not hurt this delicate dog. The lifespan of the breed is 12-15 years.

Lagotto Romagnolo (aka Romagna Water Dog)

Lagotto Romagnolo translates to lake dog from Romagna. The small- to medium-sized dog has a woolly coat that comes in shades of white, off-white, and shades of brown. These dogs are renowned for their non-shedding, waterproof coats.

The Lagotto Romagnolo has a sharp sense of smell and is particularly adept at hunting truffles. These loyal dogs are highly trainable. They are also friendly and sociable towards humans and other dogs. Today, the breed is nearly extinct, with fewer than 500 dogs in the United States. The life expectancy of the breed is 15-17 years.

Canaan Dog (aka Kelev K’naani)

Trained to be Israeli military dogs, the Canaan dog breed was developed through the domestication of the feral dogs in the Negev Desert in Israel. The breed was later admitted to the AKC’s Miscellaneous Class in 1989.

As per the AKC, Canaans are alert, vigilant, and confident. They are generally affectionate with their family members but aloof and wary with strangers. This makes them excellent protection dogs. Today, Canaan dogs are used in agility, obedience, and herding trials. They make excellent pets for runners and hikers.

Canaan dogs shed heavily and need regular grooming. Although they are highly trainable, they are also known to bark excessively. The life span of the breed is 12-15 years.

Sloughi (aka Arabian Greyhound)

The Sloughi breed was indigenous to African countries, where Berber tribes used them for hunting and guarding. They are robust, lean, sturdy, and elegant sighthounds that move with long, ground-covering strides.

Sloughis have a high prey drive, but smart owners know how to channel it by enrolling their dogs in lure coursing and racing. These hardy dogs are known to tolerate long periods outdoors in inclement weather.

The alert, intelligent Sloughi is reserved around strangers but bonds closely with people they want to please. Well-socialized Sloughis get along well with children. They are generally good with other dogs but are not recommended for homes with other small pets. Sloughis’ coats only need occasional brushing. The life span of the breed is 12-16 years.

Chinook

The name Chinook is pronounced Sha-Nook. Today, the breed is considered one of the world’s rarest dog breeds. As per the Chinook Owner’s Association, there are only about 1200 Chinooks existing today.

The large, muscular dogs do well in the cold, thanks to their dense double coats. They need a moderate amount of grooming and tons of mental stimulation to keep them happy. Chinooks are highly trainable and get along well with children. In addition to sledding, they are also used in search and rescue, agility, obedience, and herding. The lifespan of this hardy breed is 13-15 years.

New Guinea Singing Dog (aka Singer or Hallstrom’s Dog)

The New Guinea Singing Dog is a rare singing dog that looks similar to Australian Dingos. Due to their flexible, strong joints, they are capable of hunting in steep regions covered with trees. 

Singing Dogs are among cool dog breeds that do not bark or howl; instead, they use a variety of sounds in different pitches that are compared to the harmonic calls of the humpback whales. Well-socialized New Guinea Singing Dogs are friendly and gentle with people. However, they are known to be dog-aggressive and have a high prey drive.

They need an experienced dog owner who can train them using positive reinforcement methods. These adaptable dogs don’t need too much grooming. They are known to live for up to 15 years.

Kooikerhondje (aka Kooiker Dog, Dutch Decoy Dog, Dutch Decoy Spaniel)

The Kooiker dog is an old Dutch breed from the 16th century. Today, they are almost extinct, as the dwindling duck population led to the breed’s disuse after the Second World War. The Kooikerhondje was resurrected by Dutch fanciers, although the breed is rare in the United States.

Their coats are white with blazing red or orange-red patches and a reddish-brown face. These dogs are devoted to their families and do well with older kids. Kooikers need positive training and continuous socialization. Their life span is 12-14 years.

Pyrenean Mastiff (aka Mastín del Pirineo)

As per PetMD, the Pyrenean Mastiff was bred in the Spanish Pyrenees Mountains, where they would move to follow the migration patterns of sheep. 

Despite their thick double coat, Pyreneans have minimal grooming needs. They are calm dogs that are content with a few walks around the block a couple of times a day. However, they do need a job and tend to get bored without one. The lifespan of this massive breed is 8-12 years. Thanks to the efforts of various dog clubs, there are over 4000 Pyrenean Mastiffs around the world.

Telomian

Telomians are one of the unique dog breeds that were bred by the indigenous people in the rainforests of Pahang, Malaysia. They are an ancient breed, very rare outside their country of origin. They are named after the Telom River. Telomian dogs have much the same general appearance as Basenjis. They come in various shades of brown with white markings.

Telomians are lively, cheerful dogs with a polite bark and yodeling similar to Basenjis. While they are great with children, they may be difficult to train. Their lifespan is 12-14 years.

Stabyhoun (aka Stabij)

Stabyhouns, or Stabijs, are high-energy gundogs with strong retrieving skills. They are known to easily withstand even the coldest of lakes and rivers. They are also strong enough to pull sleds. 

The Stabyhoun has a nice temperament. They are friendly, peaceful, patient, and eager to please. They are easy to train and good with children and other animals. However, this is not a dog for a lazy owner. 

They need plenty of exercise and excel in obedience, agility, hunting, triathlon, endurance, and other canine activities. Their lifespan is 13-14 years. Worldwide, there are only about 6000 Stabyhouns remaining, with just 300 in North America. This makes them one of the most rare dog breeds.

Bergamasco Sheepdog (aka Cane da Pastore Bergamasco)

The Bergamasco is a true heritage breed with origins going back nearly 2000 years. They are strong, muscular dogs having a rustic appearance. They are intelligent, calm, and even-tempered. Their unique woolly strands make them appear larger and quite intimidating. 

The ideal owner for this breed is a patient, experienced dog lover who will spend time training and exercising their dog. Bergamascos are sensitive and prone to separation anxiety. On the bright side, they don’t need too much grooming. The lifespan of this breed is 13-15 years. There are fewer than 500 Bergamascos in the United States.

Catalburun (aka Turkish Pointer)

Catalburun dogs can be kept indoors or in a small yard without disturbing the neighbors. They don’t bark too much and are very good with kids. 

Their distinct physical feature is a divided or forked nose, which appears as if it is two noses in one. Catalburuns have a keen sense of smell. They are friendly and loyal and have a sunny disposition. Unfortunately, only about 200 of them exist today. The breed’s lifespan is 10-13 years.

Kai Ken (aka Tora Inu or Tiger Dog)

Tora Inu or Kai Ken may be medium-sized dogs, but they have big personalities. They were developed by Japanese breeders in the early 20th century to track and hunt game in the mountainous terrains. 

Kai Kens have brindle-patterned coats, which can be brindle black or brindle red. They are fun-loving, adaptable, and playful dogs that love kids. Kai Ken are happiest in an active environment and need physical and mental stimulation. They are ideal pets for energetic owners or anyone who loves the outdoors. These hardy dogs live for 14-16 years. Kai Ken is a rare breed, even in their native Japan.

Russian Toy (aka Russkiy or Russian Toy Terrier)

Russian Toy Dogs, or Russkiys, are known for their diminutive stature, keen expression, and sleek coats. They are available in various colors like blue and tan, brown and tan, sable, red, and brown sable. 

Russian Toys have a larger-than-life, impish personality. They can find ways to entertain themselves, whether it is chasing a ball or the squirrels in the yard. Russian Toys are loyal to their family members and other people they know, but aloof around strangers. They excel in obedience, agility, tracking, rally, and conformation. In the United States, the breed is somewhat rare and was only recognized by the AKC in 2022.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier (aka Mustard and Pepper Terrier)

Dandie Dinmonts are curvaceous, small terriers with a double coat. They have soft, silky fur on the head and feathering on the legs and muzzle. Dandies have moderate to high energy levels. They are independent, reserved, determined, and intelligent dogs. They are generally affectionate with their families and good with kids. 

Dandies are adaptable dogs that do well with active individuals or families in the city or countryside. The lifespan of the breed is 12-15 years. Many people mistakenly believe that the Dandie Dinmont was named after a person. In reality, the breed is named after a funny character in Sir Walter Scott’s Guy Mannering. Every year, more pandas are born than Dandies. In 2024, only 81 puppies were registered by the UKC.

Why Rare Breeds Matter

Rare dog breeds have great cultural and historical significance. They were created for a purpose, once upon a time, and have a rich history significant to their country of origin. By studying these dogs, we can get an insight into their genetic diversity and also study the evolutionary pathways of dogs.

Many rare dog breeds face extinction today. By creating more awareness about these breeds, we can inspire breeders and dog fanciers to create responsible breeding programs for these dogs to ensure their numbers increase and they are no longer endangered. We can also study ways to avoid genetic problems and create healthier dogs.

Challenges and Considerations When Owning a Rare Dog

The main issue in buying a rare dog breed is finding a reputable breeder who breeds for their welfare and not just for profit. Secondly, veterinarians may not always know the genetic or hereditary diseases prevalent in the breed, which can make buyers wary of buying or adopting them. Thirdly, their traits and needs may not be known. For example, some rare dogs may have inherent aggression or need a specific diet, training, or work to keep them happy and healthy.

Given these uncertainties, it’s important to gather as much information as possible about your dog’s background and potential health risks. One effective way to do that is with the Breed + Health Dog DNA Test. This tool helps identify your dog's exact breed mix, uncover potential health concerns, and offer insights into their behavioral tendencies. With this knowledge, you can work with your vet to create a personalized care plan and better understand how to meet your dog’s unique needs.

Final Thoughts: Is a Rare Dog Right for You?

Before buying or adopting any dog, not just a rare dog, ask yourself why you are making this decision. Consider if you can provide the dog with the right environment in terms of safety, training, healthy diet, daily exercise, socialization, etc. 

Rarity can be appealing, but does the dog suit your lifestyle? Do they match your personality? Do you have the finances to take care of them for the next 10-15 years? 

If your only aim is to provide a loving home to the dog while also supporting the breed’s conservation, then do go ahead. Talk to other owners, vets, and reputable breeders. Find out as much as you can about the breed. Only then should you go ahead with the adoption or buying process.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Which dog breed is considered the rarest?

The Chinook is one of the rarest dog breeds, with fewer than 30 dogs remaining at one point.

What factors contribute to the limited availability of rare dog breeds for purchase?

The lack of reliable and reputable breeders engaging in healthy breeding programs that focus on the betterment of the breed while avoiding major genetic defects is one of the main reasons why rare dog breeds are not available for immediate purchase.

Reference List

1. https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/what-to-know-about-norwegian-lundehund

2. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/canaan-dog/

3. https://chinook.org/is-my-dog-a-chinook/#:~:text=The%20short%20answer%20is%2C%20%E2%80%9CIf,close%20track%20of%20their%20puppies.

4. https://edition.cnn.com/2020/08/31/asia/singing-dog-found-in-wild-scn-trnd/index.html

5. https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/pyrenean-mastiff

6. https://basepaws.com/products/basepaws-dog-dna-test