We are all familiar with popular dog breeds like Golden Retrievers and Chihuahuas. There are numerous breeds in the world. However, no matter how many mutts you recognize, there are some lesser-known canines you may have never heard of.
While popular dog breeds often steal the spotlight and make it to the list of most loved doggies, rare dog breeds often boast unique characteristics and fascinating histories. Their behavioral traits also set them apart from other breeds.
There are many reasons why some breeds have become lesser-known over time. For instance, some pooches were bred for jobs that have now become obsolete. That is why they have become less desirable. Limited breeding and geographic confinement are also some contributing factors.
Here are the top 7 rare dog breeds you should know.
Rare Dog Breeds You Should Know
1. Otterhound
Hailing from England, the Otterhound is a large hunting dog breed. Originally bred to hunt otters, their rough double coat and webbed feet enable them to hunt on land as well as in water. Otterhounds have strong bodies, powerful minds, and a keen nose.
According to the American Kennel Club, Otterhounds are rarer than Giant Pandas. Otterhounds were meant for Otter hunting, an activity that no longer exists due to the near-extinction of river otters. Hunters no longer need Otterhounds, and that is why they have become rare.
These lively and energetic dogs require regular exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Having an affectionate nature, Otterhounds love to stay close to their humans. They can develop separation anxiety when left alone for too long.
Despite being large and strong, Otterhounds are very sensitive. Pet owners should use positive reinforcement-based methods to train them.
2. Sloughi
Also known as the Arabic Greyhound, the Sloughi is a medium-to-large dog with North Africa as its country of origin. This slender and fast dog was bred for hunting small game and is a traditional sighthound. These hunting dogs are compassionate towards their family members but wary of strangers.
Resembling a Greyhound in appearance, Sloughi are agile dogs known for their aloof nature. Although Sloughis are athletic dogs, they tend to stay calm when they are at home. This rare dog breed has a longstanding popularity in its native region because of its ability to hunt foxes and hares.
Today, only small numbers of Sloughi are found in Morocco and the rest of North Africa. Sloughis are uncommon in the United States. This active dog breed is happy relaxing on the couch as long as it is getting its daily dose of exercise.
Sloughis have a stubborn streak that can sometimes stand in the way of training. Sloughis respond well to positive reinforcement and need socialization early on.
3. Pyrenean Shepherd
The Pyrenean Shepherd is a vigilant herding dog breed, ranking low in popularity. Native to the Pyrenees mountains of France, these little dogs were used by the army for search and rescue operations and as messenger dogs. During World War II, hundreds of these canines died.
Today, Pyrenean Shepherds are still rare in the United States, per WebMD. The AKC recognizes two variations of these dogs: the rough-faced and smooth-faced. Pyrenean Shepherds are quite playful with their families, but suspicious of strangers.
Pyrenean Shepherds are smart, energetic, and highly trainable. They are eager to please their owners and are deeply connected with them. Their intuition allows them to understand their humans’ desires without even communicating.
They respond well to training and make ideal candidates for agility, rally, dock diving, and other fun canine sports.
4. Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz is a rare dog breed that was originally bred for hunting birds and small game in Finland. Their limited breeding and specific hunting abilities make them a lesser-known breed. These Spitz-type dogs exhibit a stunning red coat and a confident personality.
This breed loves to run, so potential owners should be active and take them for at least one long walk, run, or hike. Hard to find in North America, the Finnish Spitz likes playing and getting involved with children. They are quite intelligent and learn quickly.
However, they are independent thinkers, which can be a hurdle in their way of training, but positive reward-based training works the best. Finnish Spitzes have a thick double coat that sheds profusely twice a year. Daily brushing can help prevent mats and tangles.
5. Cesky Terrier
True to their terrier heritage, Cesky Terriers are feisty, tenacious, and work-oriented pooches. These fairly small dogs are sensitive and full of energy. Cesky Terriers were meant to hunt in packs and are more trainable and sociable than your typical terrier.
According to Omlet, Cesky Terriers were created by Frantisek Horak in the Czech Republic. Also known as Bohemian Terriers, they were bred by a cross between a Scottish Terrier and a Sealyham Terrier. It is a rare dog breed known for its lively and affectionate temperament.
Cesky Terriers make great family pets and are great around children and other dogs when raised with them. Due to their calm and friendly nature, they make good therapy dogs and love getting lots of attention.
6. Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen
The Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen is a lively dog who does not get tired easily. It is a French scent hound having lots of stamina and bravery. This large dog has a shaggy coat and was originally bred to hunt deer, boar, and other large game.
This rare dog breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2018. Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen is a happy and outgoing dog having an independent streak. They are very active and benefit greatly from daily exercise.
Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen are loyal companions who like playing fetch, tug-of-war, and hide and seek with their pet parents.
Obedience training is a must to overcome their stubbornness. It is typically a healthy dog breed, and reputable breeders do everything to maintain high breed standards.
7. Harrier
Harrier is a rare dog breed ranked 165th in popularity among the AKC-registered breeds. This hunting breed was recognized back in 1885. Originally bred to hunt rabbits and hares, Harriers are full of strength.
They have an outgoing, friendly, and easygoing demeanor. Harriers are fairly active and get along nicely with other dogs. Since they are pack hounds, they do not like being alone. They are very vocal and will not hesitate to let you know what they want.
Harriers have a stubborn streak as well; they like to do things their own way. Consistent and firm training using positive reinforcement methods works best for them. Harriers resemble Beagles in appearance, but are larger and more powerful.
Conclusion
Many popular breeds have made their way to our hearts with their loving personalities and endearing antics. While these famous pooches steal the spotlight, some lesser-known breeds also possess unique appearances and behavioral traits.
Rare dog breeds also have great personalities. They are as loyal, loving, and capable as some popular mutts. But they have become uncommon due to several reasons, such as limited breeding or geographical confinement.
If you are planning to adopt a rare dog breed, make sure to contact a reputable breeder. Also, learn about their personality and needs before bringing them home.
