Dogs are some of the most popular pets in the world, and with so many breeds to choose from, it can be challenging to know which one will best fit your lifestyle.
You’ll find plenty of different dog breeds, whether you’re looking for an active dog that can keep up with your athletic lifestyle or something more low-key and calm.
However, some dog breeds are rare, and not all dogs are created equal. Some might be better off in someone else’s home.
The article has compiled 20 rarest dog breeds to help you choose.
1. Otterhound
The Otterhound is a large, shaggy-coated hunting hound bred primarily for otter hunting. Though not as popular as once, it is one of the rarest dog breeds, although it is still used for hunting in some parts of the world.
The Otterhound is a relatively rare breed, with an estimated global population of just over 1000 dogs. The breed is recognized by the Kennel Club (U.K.) and the United Kennel Club (U.S.) but not by the American Kennel Club.
2. Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is one of the rarest dog breeds. It is a large, shaggy-coated herding dog native to the Bergamo province of Italy.
Though they were once common, only a few Bergamasco Sheepdogs are left today. Meanwhile, this rare breed is intelligent and affectionate, making them a great family pet. They also protect their flock, making them excellent guard dogs.
3. Polish Lowland Sheepdog
If you’re looking for a unique dog breed, you might want to consider the Polish Lowland Sheepdog. This breed is one of the rarest dog breeds worldwide, and it’s also brilliant and loyal.
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog is a medium-sized dog with a thick coat of fur that comes in black, white, or grey. They’re originally from Poland and were used as sheepdogs on farms.
Today, they make great family pets and are known for being very gentle with children. If you’re considering getting a Polish Lowland Sheepdog, be prepared to pay a bit more than you would for a more familiar breed – but it’ll be worth it!
4. Skye Terrier
The Skye Terrier is a Scottish terrier breed with a thick, soft coat and a long, flat head. Bred originally to hunt foxes and other vermin, Skye Terriers are now better known as companion animals.
These dogs are gentle and loving but can also be stubborn and independent. Skye Terriers are among the rarest dog breeds worldwide, with less than 500 registered dogs in the United States. The Skye Terrier might be the perfect breed for you if you want a rare and unique companion!
5. Ibizan Hound
This Spanish breed is relatively unknown outside its home country. The Ibizan Hound is a sighthound that hunts by sight rather than scent.
In addition, these dogs are independent and can be aloof with strangers, but they’re loving and gentle with their families.
They’re also intelligent and active, so they need plenty of exercise. The Ibizan Hound might be the perfect choice if you’re looking for a rare breed that’s a little different.
6. Harrier
The Harrier is a rare breed of dog that is similar in appearance to the English Foxhound. They are considered one of the oldest and rarest dog breeds, dating back to medieval times.
The breed nearly became extinct during World War II but was saved by a few dedicated breeders. Today, there are only a handful of Harriers in existence. If you’re lucky enough to find one, you’ll have a loyal and loving companion for life.
7. Canaan Dog
The Canaan Dog is a rare breed of dog that is native to the Middle East. They are known for being intelligent, loyal, and protective and make excellent companion animals.
However, they are also independent and can be aloof with strangers. Canaan Dogs are not suited for everyone, but if you’re looking for a unique and special pet, they might be the perfect fit.
8. Komondor
The Komondor is a large, muscular dog with a long, thick, corded coat. The coat is usually white but may also be pale cream or light gray.
Komondors are born with short, fluffy coats, but the cords don’t form until they’re about six months old. The skin lasts two to three years to reach its entire length and thickness. They are one of the rarest dog breeds.
9. Azawakh
The Azawakh is a slender, elegant dog that originates from West Africa. It is believed that there are only about 1000 Azawakhs in the world. This breed is known for being independent, intelligent, and loyal.
Meanwhile, Azawakhs are not well suited for first-time dog owners as they require patience and consistency in training. Those up for the challenge will be rewarded with a loving and devoted companion.
10. American English Coonhound
The American English Coonhound is among the rarest dog breeds not often seen outside the United States. This breed is a descendant of the English Foxhound and was used for hunting raccoons and other small game.
Today, the American English Coonhound is still used for hunting but is also becoming popular as family pets. These dogs are intelligent, loyal, and affectionate, making them great companions.
If you’re looking for a rare breed of dog that is sure to turn heads, the American English Coonhound is a perfect choice!
11. Cirneco dell’Etna
This breed is most commonly found on the island of Sicily and is used for hunting rabbits. The Cirneco dell’Etna is a small to medium-sized dog with short, fine hair that can be red, tan, or grey. They are an active breed and require a lot of exercise.
These rarest dog breeds are very independent and can be aloof with strangers, but they are devoted and loving to their families. Cirneco dell’Etnias are relatively rare outside of Italy but have recently gained popularity.
So, if you’re looking for a unique companion and don’t mind exercising them frequently, the Cirneco dell’Etna might be the perfect breed!
12. Norwegian Lundehund
The Norwegian Lundehund is one of the world’s rarest dog breeds, with an estimated global population of just over 600. This spitz-type breed is native to Norway and used to hunt puffin birds.
The Lundehund is known for its six toes on each foot and double-jointed elbows and shoulders, which give it great agility and flexibility. This breed is also relatively quiet and gentle, making them a good choice for families with children.
13. English Foxhound
The English Foxhound is a large, tall breed with a strong, muscular build. They were initially bred for hunting foxes and had deep-set chests and long legs that helped them cover ground quickly.
Today, they’re still used for hunting in some parts of the world but are also popular as family pets. They’re not as common as some other breeds. They’re one of the rarest dog breeds.
14. American Foxhound
The American Foxhound is a rare dog breed that is not often seen outside the United States. Though their origins are unknown, they were believed to be bred for hunting foxes and other small game.
Today, they are still used for hunting but are also popular as companion animals. They are gentle and good-natured dogs that make great family pets. However, they are not suited for city living and need plenty of space to run and play.
15. Belgian Laekenois
The Belgian Laekenois is a rare breed of dog that originates from Belgium. The breed is named after Laeken, where it was first developed.
The Laekenois is a herding dog used to herd sheep and other livestock. The breed is also used as a guard dog and companion dog. The Laekenois is a medium-sized dog with a square head and a short, dense coat.
16. Sloughi
One of the rarest dog breeds in North Africa, the Sloughi is not well known outside its native region. But this elegant sighthound is gaining popularity in the U.S., thanks to its regal good looks and gentle disposition.
The Sloughi is more significant than most sighthounds, standing 26 to 28 inches at the shoulder and weighing 60 to 70 pounds.
Its smooth coat comes in brindle, fawn, or black with tan markings, and its long head tapers to a point. Today, some Berber tribesmen in North Africa still use the Sloughi for hunting.
17. Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a rare breed of dog that hails from the Pyrenees mountains in France. These dogs were initially bred to herd sheep and are still used today.
While they are not as popular as other breeds, they are still prized for their loyalty, intelligence, and hard work. If you’re looking for the rarest dog breeds that are sure to stand out, the Pyrenean Shepherd is a great choice.
18. Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz is a rare breed of dog that originates from Finland. This breed is known for its hunting abilities and its friendly personality. The Finnish Spitz is a medium-sized dog that weighs between 20 and 30 pounds.
In addition, this breed has a thick coat of reddish-brown fur. The Finnish Spitz is an active breed that needs plenty of exercise. This breed is also known for being very intelligent and easy to train.
19. Cesky Terrier
The Cesky Terrier is one of the rarest dog breeds. It is a small to medium-sized dog with a long, silky coat that can be black, tan, or gray.
The Cesky Terrier is an intelligent breed known for being easy to train. Also, they are very loyal and affectionate dogs that make great companions.
They are not well known outside of the Czech Republic. The Cesky Terrier is a unique breed that is worth considering if you are looking for a new furry friend.
20. Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen is a scent hound from the West of France. They were initially bred to hunt deer, wild boar, and small game. The breed nearly became extinct following World War II but was saved by a few passionate breeders.
Today, there are only a few hundred Grand Basset Griffon Vendeens in the world. They are loving and loyal companions and make great family dogs.
If you’re looking for a rare breed that is also relatively low-maintenance, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen may be the perfect dog for you!
