Across the entire America, millions of tails proudly wag. There are 201 registered breeds in the American Kennel Club, but not all top the popularity leaderboard.
Some sit at the bottom, even though they carry fascinating traits. These dogs are rare, and sometimes they are overlooked. It’s like hidden gems that just need someone who can recognize their true talent.
There can be multiple reasons behind dogs’ unpopularity. Some dogs may need to be kept in fenced yards, as they are too demanding in terms of exercise or physical activity. While other dogs might be less-known or native to specific areas and haven’t received global recognition.
So this blog is all about the least popular dog breeds in America. We will explore the reasons behind their unpopularity and their key traits that must be recognized.
Most Unpopular Dog Breeds In America
1. English Foxhound
Whenever you talk about English Foxhounds, various traits come to mind. Sniffing, howling, fox hunting, and much more. According to PetMD, now these dogs are among the rarest breeds in the USA. So let’s figure out the reasons why these dogs hide below the radar.
Bred for Sport that Faded
English Foxhounds were originally bred for foxhunting. With time, this sport became unpopular; therefore, the demand for such specialized dogs declined or faded. When the dog’s primary purpose disappeared, it got neglected.
Too Much Energy Levels
Another reason behind the decline of English Foxhounds is their energy. These high-energy dogs are not built for short walks or small play sessions. On the contrary, they thrive on significant physical and mental activities. For busy people or those living in apartments, that demand is too much.
Unique Traits
Friendly and social
Moderate grooming needs
Highly trainable
2. Bergamasco Sheepdog
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is an ancient breed belonging to the Italian Alps. Historically, these dogs were highly praised for their exceptional herding skills. Currently, they stand at the lowest ranks in the popularity graph due to:
Specialized Grooming Needs
These dogs have large matted coats that give them an imposing look. But these coats need specialized grooming that isn’t about brushing. It’s about separating the flocks correctly, which needs time, patience, and knowledge.
High Socialization
Bergamasco Sheepdogs are a herding dog breed, so they used to work closely with their owners. So they have strong protective instincts and are usually wary of strangers. Therefore, these dogs need consistent socialization and training to prevent them from being overly distrustful.
Unique Traits
Deeply connected with owners
Affectionate and loving
Good choice for allergy sufferers
3. Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen
Commonly known as Grand or GBGV, the Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen is a French scenthound. It is the tallest among Basset Hounds, as mentioned by WebMD. This breed has rustic looks due to unique beards, mustaches, and eyebrows. But why don’t Americans opt for this breed?
Hard to Find in the USA
Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen is a newly recognized breed that has not properly come to the surface. Moreover, these dogs are quite difficult to breed. So, it is not excessively available in America. This scarcity alone plays a significant role in their low popularity.
Independent Streak
Their independent nature is also a hurdle to their low demand. Although Griffons are intelligent but they have their own minds. So training these dogs sounds like negotiations rather than a simple command.
Unique Traits
Happy and outgoing
Easy to maintain coats
Socialize with families
4. Norwegian Lundehund
The Norwegian Lundehund is the rarest Spitz-type working dog from the Rocky Island of Vaeroy, Norway. These dogs have several remarkable traits, and one of them is six toes on each foot.
Their fox-like appearance will truly catch your eye. These dogs weigh between 12-18 pounds and stand 12-15 inches tall.
The Purpose that No Longer Exists
The Norwegian Lundehund came into existence just for a solo role, which was hunting puffins along cliffs. And once puffin hunting was restricted, people stopped adopting these dogs. So without a purpose, this breed didn’t spread widely.
Distemper Outbreak During World War II
During WWII, a distemper outbreak struck so hard that it nearly wiped out on Vaeroy. Only a few Norwegian Lundehund were left behind. Despite various efforts, only six purebred Norwegian were left in Norway in the 1960s.
Unique Traits
Extremely agile
Elastic neck
Rotary gait
5. Sloughi
Nicknamed as Arabian greyhound, the Sloughi is an ancient domesticated dog that was used for hunting various game animals in North Africa. These dogs are very affectionate but only for their family members. They are aloof from strangers, and for the right people, plenty of love awaits.
Less Exposure in America
In the United States, Sloughis are not properly introduced. It is exceptional you see this breed in dog shows or working roles. So when people don’t see a dog in their neighbours’, kennel clubs, or even on websites, it slips out of their choices.
Overwhelming Energy
These dogs ask for an active style due to their overwhelming energy. As they were built for running across deserts, they thrive on ample physical work. Otherwise, they become frustrated and show behavior problems.
Unique Traits
Sleek and elegant
Good watchdogs
Reserved but loyal nature
6. Otterhound
Otterhounds are big, highly-sprinted and goofy scenthounds from England. Their dense, shaggy coats, webbed paws, and keen sense of smell make them different from other breeds. However, only 600 Otterhounds are left in the entire world. That’s truly an alarming stat.
Job Lost Due To Changing Laws
The breed’s fall began when otter hunting was outlawed in the UK back in 1970. As a result of this, once a popular breed, it vanished from the surface. Breeders stopped raising them in large numbers, and they started to slip towards extinction.
Messy Personality
Their messy personality was also one of the reasons behind their downfall. This dog drools, brings mud inside the house, and carries heavy, plus messy coats. Many people love dogs that are tidy and much easier to manage.
Unique Traits
Strong sense of smell
Excellent swimmers
Versatile
7. Canaan Dog
Canaan is one of the oldest AKC breeds and the national dog of Israel. It is usually found in neighbouring countries of Israel. This is a medium-sized dog characterized by its erect ears, dark almond-shaped eyes, and a bushy tail.
Dominant Personality
Canaan Dogs have a dominant personality, so they won’t be sitting quietly, waiting for instructions. In fact, they like to make decisions on their own. Sounds good? But not everyone likes this type of attitude. A lot of training is required to make them well-mannered.
High on Caution Scale
Along with dominance, they are also very cautious. They don’t like jumping into the arms of strangers. These dogs take a lot of time trusting new people. They can be excellent watchdogs, but not the easiest pets.
Unique Traits
Adorable, alert, and vigilant
Smart and intelligent
Excellent survival trait
Conclusion
It is not that dog breeds that are less popular lack in value. Simply, they face challenges of history, lifestyle demands, or limited exposure. But remember, each of the above-mentioned breed carry a story that truly deserves recognition.
Popularity may place them low on charts, but if we get deep insight into their unique traits, then we can realize their real value. All of these less popular dogs thrive with the love and attention of their owners.
