Dogs have been wonderful companions for humans for centuries. Some popular dog breeds are loved for their striking appearances or joyful personalities. However, some lesser-known breeds may surprise you with their fascinating histories or unique behvioral and physical traits.
Dog breeds may become rare due to several reasons. Some of them are fairly high maintenance, so people shy away from them and opt for easier breeds instead. Others are common in their native region, but are considered rare in other parts of the world due to geographical isolation.
You may not be familiar with some rare dog breeds, but they possess fascinating histories and unique behavioral and physical traits. They can win your heart with their loving and loyal personalities and distinctive behavioral traits.
Have a look at these 7 rare dog breeds that could surprise your heart.
Rare Dog Breeds That Could Surprise Your Heart
1. Otterhound
Otterhound is an even-tempered and boisterous dog breed, recognised by its dense shaggy coat, webbed feet, and acute sense of smell. They were originally bred for otter hunting, an activity that no longer exists due to the near-extinction of otters. That’s why Otterhounds have become rare.
According to the American Kennel Club, the Otterhound is rarer than the Giant Panda and is considered one of the most endangered breeds in the world. Since their quarry was found on land and in water, Otterhounds have an affinity for swimming.
Otterhounds are known for their friendly, playful, and affectionate temperament. Their loving personality and cute gestures of trying to wiggle their way into your lap will melt your heart. They form strong bonds with their owners and can develop separation anxiety when left alone for too long.
Otterhounds are large and strong dogs, but are sensitive. So, positive reinforcement-based training methods work best for them.
2. Bergamasco Sheepdog
Bergamasco Sheepdog is another rare dog breed, easily recognised by its distinctive coat. The breed’s number began to dwindle near World War II, but some breed associations have worked to keep it alive. This medium-sized Italian dog breed has a coat that naturally forms loose mats or flocks.
Their coat is surprisingly low-maintenance and sheds minimally. This ancient dog breed is quite athletic, but does not require an extensive amount of exercise for physical and mental stimulation. However, they are the happiest when they have a job to do, since they were bred to herd livestock.
Bergamasco Sheepdogs enjoy dog sports like agility and herding. You can exercise your Bergamasco Sheepdog via walks, hiking, jogging, playtime, and more. Early socialization and training based on positive reinforcement based methods is beneficial.
These highly intelligent dogs were bred to think independently, explains Omlet. Their attentive and patient nature makes them ideal for therapy work.
3. Cirneco dell’Etna
Cirneco dell’Etna is a regal and rare dog breed that was originally bred for hunting small game. Hailing from Italy, these ancient dogs are cherished for their loyal and gentle nature. Cirneco dell’Etna is friendly and attentive towards its human companions.
Cirnechi were owned by poor farmers and not by the aristocrats. The pheasants who owned these dogs were not concerned with breed standards and pedigrees. That is why they were developed with minimum human intervention.
Since they were bred as scent hounds, Cirnechi like to chase with their noses. They learn quickly and critically assess what they have learnt before implementing it. Cirnechi require moderate exercise every day for physical and mental enrichment.
Their short and smooth coat needs minimal care. Gentle weekly brushing using a soft-bristle brush is enough to keep the coat healthy.
4. Azawakh
Azawakh are loyal and affectionate companion dogs who bond tightly with their people. This West African sighthound has a slender and refined appearance. Azawakhs have a gentle nature, but they can be stubborn and independent.
Azawakh is a rare dog breed due to geographical isolation. According to Purina, Azawakhs were not seen outside Africa before the 1970s. With proper training and early socialization, you can teach them to get along well with other animals and people.
However, Azawakhs have an instinct to protect their people and territory. They are a bit reserved towards strangers and like to chase other animals. This athletic breed requires at least two hours of exercise every day for physical and mental stimulation.
Being extreme in build, speed, and cognition, the Azawakh is not a breed for someone expecting instant obedience.
5. Komondor
This massive Hungarian flock guardian can be easily recognized by its profuse white cords. Thanks to their distinctive appearance, you cannot confuse them with any other breed. These working sheepdogs are one of the rarest dog breeds in the world.
Komondors were nearly wiped out during World War II era, leaving only a few dozen dogs. They were slowly re-established in Hungary, but remain fairly rare to this day. Koms are strong and independent dogs.
Koms are incredibly loyal to their owners, but tend to be suspicious of strangers. They make wonderful guard dogs and are not suitable for first-time dog parents. These large and powerful dogs are quite easygoing as pets.
However, their white coat requires lots of attention to keep looking clean and sweet-smelling. Komondors need at least an hour of daily exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
6. Canaan Dog
The Canaan dog is a rare dog breed found in Israel and its surrounding areas. This medium-sized herding dog breed is placid around its family but reserved towards strangers. They are tough, agile, and athletic, which makes them perfect for hikers and runners.
Canaan dogs are quite loyal, intelligent, and independent. They make excellent guard dogs due to their protective nature and territorial instincts. Canaan is one of the oldest and rarest dog breeds in the world.
These dedicated companions need moderate exercise of around one hour every day. Canaan dogs learn quickly but can be stubborn at times. Consistent positive reinforcement-based training methods work best for them.
7. Harrier
Originating from England, Harriers are medium-sized scent hounds that were used to hunt in packs for rabbits and hares. Sturdily built with large bones, Harriers are capable of working tirelessly in all terrains.
These outgoing and friendly dogs are fairly active and make easygoing companions. Harriers are fun-loving and playful dogs. It is a relatively rare dog breed in America, but only because of its extensive exercise needs.
Harriers are highly intelligent dogs, having wonderful problem-solving skills. Since they were bred to work independently, they can have a stubborn streak. However, Harriers can be easily trained but respond well to calm, loving, and firm leadership.
Conclusion
Rare dog breeds are often lesser known, but possess fascinating behavioral and physical traits. Like popular dog breeds, they are incredibly loyal to their owners and form strong bonds with them. They have an affectionate nature and make loving companions.
From Otterhound to Komondor and Azawakh, rare breeds are loved for their fascinating histories. But, they have become less well-known due to several reasons, such as geographical isolation or historical role. They need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy, and make wonderful pets.
