When most people think of large dogs, popular breeds always come to mind. What often goes unnoticed is an entire world of exceptional big dogs that exist far beyond popularity and trends. They are shaped by centuries of work, not by modern demands.
From guarding herds in isolated regions to enduring extreme climates, their development focuses on reliability and survival.
Their fascinating histories, physical traits, and temperaments are basic factors that set them apart from famous dog breeds. They are a unique blend of patience, emotional balance, and independence. Let’s have a glimpse of a diverse canine world by exploring these lesser-known furry friends.
Fun Fact: There are a few rare dogs that naturally patrol the same routes every night, memorizing boundaries without training.
Exceptional Large Dog Breeds Few People Know Exist
1. Otterhound
Dating back to the 14th century, England discovered a dog breed called the Otterhound to hunt and retrieve otters from lakes and rivers. This rare breed’s annual registrations are deceasing world wide. They are characterized by webbed feet, a strong sense of smell, and a shaggy coat.
Otterhounds are extremely affectionate dogs towards their families and also get along beautifully with children. These muscular dogs have great stamina and boundless energy. Thus, they are better suited to outdoorsy households.
When it comes to grooming needs, Otterhound’s waterproof coat needs brushing once or twice a week. They demand ample exercise, such as long walks, agility, tracking, and obedience classes. These even-tempered dogs are sensitive and need food and praise together for better training.
2. Leonberger
This reddish gold dog was originally bred in Germany to work on farms, but soon became the favorite of European royalty due to its affectionate temperament and long hair. However, this ancient dog’s numbers were greatly decreased during World War II.
Though currently they are not enough in numbers, Leonbergers are mostly offering their services in search and rescue missions, and also as a family dog. When proper socialization is introduced to these gentle giants, these big dogs do well with other dogs and children.
Regardless of their history as working dogs, they are better suited to laid-back families, where they excel as human companions. These calm dogs with an independent streak are easy to train for experienced owners only.
3. Komondor
A unique look owing to white dreadlocks, Komondor was bred as a guard dog for livestock that seamlessly camouflages into herds. They came from China in mid 1500, but are commonly called the Hungarian Sheepdog. In the USA, this giant breed is scarce, but its popularity is increasing with time.
With a strong protective nature, Komondor makes deep bonds with their families and is considered playful and entertaining at home. This family dog is not ashamed of having a snuggle with its favorite one despite its sheer size.
These loyal dogs are wary of strangers to ensure the safety of their people. Komondor’s beautiful coat should be bathed instead of brushing, and never keep it moist or ready for bad smells and skin infections. Free running in a fenced yard and walks with the owner are enough to keep them in shape.
4. Neapolitan Mastiff
Neapolitan Mastiffs were favored by the ancient Roman Empire, where they were discovered as guard dogs, war dogs, and as gladiators. These giant dogs are famous in Italy, but a few thousand registrations have been observed around the world.
According to the AKC, Neapolitan Mastiffs with an intimidating presence stay aloof with strangers, but are very amiable to those they know and their families. These short-coated dogs do need regular grooming, such as a bathing routine, nail trimming, and ear cleaning.
Running for miles is not their cup of tea as they develop joint problems. With a calm demeanor, their regular exercise needs are not high, and Mastiffs love snoozing. Early socialization and training are easy for owners as compared to handling a big dog with a stubborn streak.
5. English Foxhound
Since the English Foxhound is bred to hunt foxes in England, this rare breed has very few registrations recorded in the American Kennel Club. These affectionate dogs are known for their hunting skills, strong noses, and good, sturdy frames.
Generally, English Foxhounds are friendly and social dogs and make good family dogs with early socialization and training. However, they are not the pooches for everyone, due to their high maintenance in terms of daily exercise and barking nature, as mentioned by PetMD.
English Foxhounds are smart dogs, but with their opinionated minds, they do not do well with novice pet parents. For grooming, this breed is considered low maintenance, since its short, dense double coat sheds moderately and is free of mats.
6. Azawakh
In the Saharan Desert, this African hunting dog was used to hunt wild boar, gazelle, deer, and hares. Tall and elegant Azawakh is blessed with a short coat which comes in various color combinations. This dog breed was recognized bythe American Kennel Club in 2019 as an ancient breed.
They are blessed with exceptional vision and speed to excel in their jobs and lure coursing. Overall, this athletic giant dog marks its temperament as very loving, devoted, and observant. Azawakh has been a working dog for many years, but they are happiest when assigned a job.
With an impressive size, their high energy levels can be met via daily exercise and some outdoor adventures. They make great companions for hiking and hunting. Though they live with other animals, due to their strong prey drive, they chase small and swift pets. So, supervision becomes necessary.
7. Estrela Mountain Dog
Hailing from Portugal’s Estrela Mountains, where these gentle buddies served as guard dogs for livestock. This rare breed is still endowed with the same loyal and protective nature and offers its services in police sections as well as homes.
Purina states that these brave dogs remain reserved around strangers and know how to deal with dangerous situations all alone. They thrive in training sessions and love to please their owners by learning things from them.
Estrela Mountain Dog needs at least an hour of exercise for its healthy and happy years. With that said, this big dog is better suited to experienced households having lots of space for their relaxing time. They do not do well with younger kids and should be adopted as family pets by young individuals.
Conclusion
In the end, rare large dog breeds that remain largely unknown are not hidden because they lack value, but because they demand understanding beyond surface-level appeal. Their size, instincts, and background years require pet owners to be intentional, prepared, and realistic.
When placed in suitable environments, these dogs prove to be dependable, emotionally grounded, and deeply loyal companions.
There are some breeds as well that are best suited for people who choose compatibility over popularity, such as the Irish Wolfhound, Bergamasco Sheepdog, Ibizan Hound, Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernard, Tibetan Mastiff, Black Russian Terrier, and Bernese Mountain Dog.
