Big dogs have a way of capturing hearts with their sheer presence. They’re gentle giants, protective guardians, and often the most loyal companions you could ever ask for. Yet, while breeds like the Great Dane or Saint Bernard often steal the spotlight, there are many rare large breeds quietly waiting to be noticed.
These overlooked giants may not make the headlines, but they’re just as loving, majestic, and full of personality as their more famous cousins. From towering shepherds with noble spirits to fluffy protectors from far-off regions, these breeds deserve their moment to shine.
The beauty of big dogs isn’t just in their size—it’s in the comfort of leaning against their massive frame after a long day, the joy of watching them lumber around like oversized teddy bears, and the reassurance that comes with their watchful eyes.
We’ll uncover rare big dog breeds that often go unnoticed, shining a light on their history, traits, and why they deserve a special place in the hearts of dog lovers. If you think you’ve seen all the giants the dog world has to offer, think again.
Did you know? Some giant breeds are rarely seen outside their countries of origin, yet they combine power, loyalty, and gentle temperaments, making them hidden treasures in the canine world.
Rare Big Dog Breeds Often Overlooked
1. Otterhound
If Sherlock Holmes had a dog, chances are it would’ve been an Otterhound—a large, scruffy, nose-to-the-ground hound with a natural knack for sniffing out trouble… or snacks.
Once bred to hunt otters (yep, that was a job once), these lovable giants now spend their days being loyal companions, bringing joy, and occasionally dunking themselves in your pond.
With fewer than a thousand left worldwide, Otterhounds are so rare that spotting one at the dog park is like running into a celebrity… only hairier and way more likely to slobber on you.
Walking Wet Mop Vibes: Their shaggy, waterproof double coat makes them look like they just got out of the shower—and they kind of love it that way.
Aquatic Enthusiasts: If there’s water around, the Otterhound will find it, jump in it, and drag some of it back onto your couch.
Big Goofy Heart: Despite their size (80–120 lbs of pure floof and muscle), they’re gentle giants who think lap-sitting is a reasonable life choice.
Because of their boisterous nature, Otterhounds need training to prevent them from jumping up and accidentally knocking people over, including small children. In training sessions, Otterhound puppies are eager to please and respond quickly to high-reward dog treats.
Fun fact: Their sense of smell is so powerful, it can actually compete with a Bloodhound’s. Translation? Don’t even try to sneak a sandwich past them.
2. Norwegian Elkhound
If Thor had a dog, it would absolutely be a Norwegian Elkhound. These sturdy, wolfish-looking pups have been around since the days of the Vikings, guarding homesteads, pulling sleds, and hunting big game like elk (hence the name).
Basically, they’re the ultimate multitaskers with a side of Norse legend. Despite their heroic resume, Elkhounds aren’t divas—they’re family dogs who love to be right in the middle of the action.
Built-in Alarm System: Forget doorbells. These dogs will announce visitors, mail carriers, and possibly a leaf blowing by.
Adventure Buddy: Hiking, camping, sledding—Elkhounds live for the great outdoors.
Loyal Shadows: They bond tightly with their humans and often try to squeeze their 50+ pounds of fluff right onto your lap.
Elkies are known to be friendly and affectionate dogs that enjoy attention and cuddles from their human companions. Their gentle temperament makes them excellent with children of all ages, though all interactions should be carefully supervised.
Just be prepared: their bark is… let’s say enthusiastic. Your neighbors will never wonder if someone walked past your house again.
Fun fact: They’re national treasures in Norway, often celebrated as part of the country’s history and culture. Basically, owning one is like having your very own furry piece of Viking heritage.
3. Chinook
Meet the Chinook, America’s very own contribution to the big-dog world—and one of the rarest breeds on the planet. Born in New Hampshire in the early 1900s, this breed was designed to be the ultimate sled dog: strong, fast, and tough enough for Arctic expeditions.
Basically, if dogs had LinkedIn, the Chinook’s résumé would put us all to shame. But here’s the twist: while they look like rugged working dogs, Chinooks are secretly big softies. Think “giant teddy bear who just happens to be able to drag a sled through a snowstorm.”
Snow Pros: If it involves pulling, running, or bounding through snow, the Chinook is all in. Your winter workouts just got an upgrade.
Family First: Despite their working-dog roots, they’re famously gentle and patient—especially with kids.
Endangered Doggos: With only a few hundred registered worldwide, the Chinook is rarer than some exotic sports cars.
Chinooks thrive on the company of their family members and other dogs and can develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Hiring a pet sitter to check in can help when you’re away, PetMD noted.
Without sufficient attention, exercise, and mental stimulation, a bored or lonely Chinook may develop destructive tendencies, such as digging out of the yard, so keeping this active and alert dog engaged is essential for their happiness.
Fun fact: The Chinook is the official state dog of New Hampshire—yes, that’s a thing—and honestly, it might be the most wholesome state pride fact ever.
4. Sloughi
If the Greyhound is the sleek sports car of the dog world, the Sloughi is the exotic desert supercar you’ve never heard of.
Originating in North Africa, these elegant sighthounds were bred by Berber tribes to chase down gazelles and hares across the Sahara. Translation? They’ve got legs for days and a sense of drama to match.
The Sloughi (pronounced SLOO-ghee) isn’t just fast—they’re graceful, sensitive, and deeply loyal. They bond hard with their families, but they do carry themselves with a little bit of “royalty” energy, like they expect velvet cushions and maybe a crown.
Speed Demons: They can hit racing-dog speeds, making them the Usain Bolt of the sand dunes.
Reserved Royalty: They’re affectionate with their people but often aloof with strangers. Basically, they decide who gets VIP access.
Ultra-Rare: Even among rare breeds, the Sloughi is hard to spot outside its homeland. Seeing one is like stumbling across buried treasure in the dog world.
The Sloughi is a primitive hunting breed that forms very strong bonds with its owner or family from an early age. As per Wikipedia, they tend not to be overly shy or aggressive, and when well-bred and properly socialized, a Sloughi becomes a stable, attentive, and deeply loving family member.
Fun fact: Sloughis were so valued in ancient times that harming one was considered a crime. Imagine that—back then, hurting a Sloughi could get you into serious trouble with the locals.
5. American English Coonhound
If country music could take dog form, it might just be the American English Coonhound. These athletic hounds were bred in the U.S. to chase raccoons (aka “coons”) through forests at night—hence the name.
Imagine a dog who loves long moonlit runs, has a soundtrack of baying howls, and is basically the life of the midnight party.
Don’t let their working-dog grit fool you, though—Coonhounds are also sweet, goofy, and full of tail-wagging charm. They’ll go from chasing raccoons in the woods to snuggling on the couch without missing a beat.
Endurance Athlete: Built for stamina, they can run for hours. Forget a jogging buddy—this dog will outpace you every time.
Big Sweetheart: Behind that rugged hunting résumé is a gentle, affectionate pup who adores family life.
Truly American: One of the few breeds developed in the U.S., they carry a slice of homegrown history with them.
Fun fact: Coonhounds are so good at their job that in competitive “coonhound trials,” they’re judged on speed, accuracy, and—yes—the musicality of their howls. It’s like “The Voice,” but furrier.
6. Canaan Dog
If dogs had a “most likely to outlast the apocalypse” award, the Canaan Dog would probably win it. Originating in the Middle East thousands of years ago, these hardy, medium-to-large dogs were once the guardians of ancient settlements and herders of sheep and goats.
Today, they’re still rare outside of Israel, where they’re considered the national dog. What makes them stand out? Their survival skills and smarts. Canaan Dogs are highly adaptable, wary of strangers, and loyal to their people.
They’ve gone from roaming desert camps to starring as devoted family guardians—basically, they traded in their camel-side hustle for couches and dog toys.
Smart Cookies: They’re quick learners, independent thinkers… and sometimes a little too clever for their own good.
Guardian Instincts: Naturally protective, they’re like a built-in security system—with a fluffier face.
Low-Maintenance Looks: Their short coat makes grooming a breeze compared to fluffier giants.
Fun fact: The breed was rediscovered in the 1930s when Dr. Rudolphina Menzel (a scientist in Israel) began domesticating the free-living desert dogs. In other words, these pups went from “street-smart desert survivors” to “national treasure” in just a few decades.
7. Borzoi
If dogs had a red carpet event, the Borzoi would glide down it in slow motion, fur flowing like a shampoo commercial. Once known as the Russian Wolfhound, these elegant giants were bred by Russian nobility to chase down wolves—because apparently hunting rabbits just wasn’t dramatic enough.
With their long, silky coats and statuesque looks, Borzois have starred in art, fashion ads, and even old aristocratic portraits. But behind the high-fashion exterior is a gentle, calm companion who loves quiet time with their humans… until it’s time to zoom.
Gentle Giants: Despite their wolf-hunting past, Borzois are typically calm, affectionate, and surprisingly good indoor dogs.
Zoom Mode Activated: They need space to sprint, but once they’ve had their run, they’re happy to lounge like royalty.
Polite Diners: Unlike some big breeds, they aren’t heavy eaters—just don’t let them exercise right before or after meals, since they can be prone to bloat.
Fun fact: As per WebMD, Borzois shed—a lot. Like, enough to make you consider starting a side business in “DIY Borzoi Sweaters.” If you’ve got allergies, this might not be your best match.
Conclusion
Rare big dog breeds often overlooked combine ancient roots, athletic dogs, and intelligent, outgoing personalities. Several breeds like the Catahoula Leopard Dog, Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen, Bedlington Terrier, American Foxhound, Swedish Vallhund, Cesky Terrier, Bergamasco Sheepdog, and English Foxhound were originally bred for hunting—from otter hunting to large game and hunting small game—and often served as guard dogs or watchdogs.
These dogs have unique appearances, including double coats, hair weaved, webbed feet, or even six toes, and require experienced dog owners due to their stubborn, independent nature and high maintenance needs. While their popularity may be lower than that of more popular dog breeds, these energetic, playful, and brave breeds excel with livestock, animals, and protection tasks. Their cute, tough, and alert temperament, combined with a rich origin story, makes them rare gems for those willing to explore and meet the challenges of these exceptional dogs.
