When most people think of “family dogs,” they picture a Golden Retriever, a Labrador, maybe a Beagle if they are feeling adventurous.
These are great dogs, don’t get us wrong!!!
But they are also everywhere.
They are the household names of the dog world.
And if you are a true dog lover who wants something different, something that does not show up at every dog park, there are some rare dog breeds you never knew could be great family pets.
These are not the dogs you see on every street corner. These are the unique breeds with fascinating histories, incredible personalities, and an ability to fit into family life.
Some were bred to hunt in harsh climates. Others were bred for hunting, herding, or guarding livestock. A few come from places you have probably never heard of. But all of them… have got what it takes to be loyal, loving, and wonderful family dogs.
Fun Fact!
Did you know?
The Norwegian Lundehund has six toes on each paw!
Yep, you read that right!
According to the American Kennel Club, this rare breed was developed to hunt puffins on the cliffs of Norway and those extra toes gave them better grip on steep and slippery rocks. Built for job. TOTALLY!!
Rare Dog Breeds You Never Knew Could Be Great Family Pets
1. Stabyhoun
Ever heard of the Stabyhoun?
Yes, most people haven’t.
This rare dog breed comes from the Netherland and it’s shocking that even most dog lovers have no idea about their existence. Stabyhouns are incredibly versatile dogs that were originally bred to hunt small game like rabbits and birds, retrieve waterfowl, and even help around the farm.
As per the American Kennel Club, they are an “all-purpose” dog.
What makes them great family pets?
Well, for starters, they are gentle, affectionate, and super loyal. They bond closely with family and are patient with kids. They are also intelligent dogs that are easy to train. It is a HUGE plus for families who want a well-behaved puppy without the drama.
Stabyhouns have a beautiful double coat that needs regular brushing. But grooming needs are not too crazy. They are medium-sized dogs, so they are not too big or too small. They do well in homes with a moderate amount of space.
These dogs have daily exercise needs to stay happy. Long walks, playing fetch, or swimming (they love water, classic water dogs). And because they were bred for hunting, mental stimulation is key.
2. Finnish Lapphund
From the frozen north of Finland comes a breed that’s basically a teddy bear with a heart of gold.
The Finnish Lapphund was originally bred by the Sami people to herd reindeer in the harsh Arctic climate. So, these herding dogs are tough and hardworking with a serious background.
But they are also incredibly gentle, friendly, and adaptable to family life. In fact, they are famous for their calm and affectionate nature. They are great with kids, other pets, and even strangers once they warm up.
This Spitz-type dog breed has got a thick, dense double coat that helped them survive the brutal winters. Grooming is definitely part of the package. Regular brushing is a MUST during shedding season. But that fluffy coat is part of their charm.
Finnish Lapphunds are intelligent dogs; easy to train, perfect for families who want a dog that listens. They need regular exercise, but they are not crazy high-energy. Daily exercise, daily walks, some playtime, and some mental stimulation are enough to keep them happy.
One of the coolest things about this rare dog breed… they are vocal. As per PetMD, they like to “talk” to their person with little barks and sounds. It’s adorable.
3. Chinook
New Hampshire’s official state dog… and one of the rarest dog breeds in America.
The Chinook was bred in the early 1900s as a working dog for sledding and hauling heavy loads across long distances in freezing temperatures.
They are strong, athletic dogs with webbed feet (Seriously!) that help them move through snow like pros.
But despite their tough working dog background, Chinooks have a very affectionate and gentle nature. They are famous for having loving personalities and being patient with children. They are loyal dogs through and through.
They are great family pets because of their temperament. Chinooks are calm dogs; friendly and good-natured. They are not aggressive or wary of strangers like some other breeds. They just want to be around their people and make everyone happy.
They do need daily exercise since they were bred to work. But they are not hyperactive. Long walks, hikes, or even pulling a sled will keep these wild dogs satisfied (wild, only by adventurous nature).
Consistent training is important, and they respond well to positive reinforcement.
Truly a rare dog with a sweet, loyal personality and a history.
4. Xoloitzcuintli
Okay… let’s address the elephant in the room.
The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced “show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee”) is the Mexican hairless dog, and yeah… they look different. These are ancient dogs, loyal and really wonderful family pets.
This rare breed has been around for 3,000 years. Yep, ancient Egypt vibes, but in the Americas!! They were thought to be sacred by the Aztecs and were believed to guide souls to the afterlife. Deep stuff, no?
Xolos (nickname, because who’s going to say the full name every time?) comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard. They also come in hairless and coated varieties, so you have got options.
They are calm, loyal, and affectionate dogs for their human companions. Plus, they bond closely and have a protective nature.
Because they are hairless dogs, grooming is pretty easy. No shedding. But you do need to protect their skin from sunburn and keep them warm in cold weather.
They need regular exercise, but they are not super high-energy. Daily walks and mental stimulation are enough.
They are just cool. Walking around with an Xolo makes you feel like you are part of ancient history.
5. Cesky Terrier
The Cesky Terrier is a rare breed that was developed in the Czech Republic in the 1940s. The breed was created by crossing a Scottish Terrier and Sealyham Terrier to create a perfect hunting dog for going after foxes and other small game in the forests.
And…
MISSION accomplished!
Cesky Terriers are smaller than some other breeds on this list, but they have got all the heart of a big dog. They are loyal, affectionate, and calm for a Terrier. Unlike some Terriers that are constantly bouncing off the walls, Ceskys are more laid-back and easy-going. As per Purina, they are tough Terriers, more of a working dog vibe.
Their gentle nature is what makes them great family dogs.
They are patient with kids, friendly with other breeds, and they are not overly aggressive.
They have got a gorgeous silky coat that needs regular grooming to keep it looking good. But honestly, their coat is one of their best features. It is soft, beautiful, and does not shed much.
Cesky Terriers need exercise, but they are not crazy energetic. Daily walks and some playtime are enough.
6. English Foxhound
The English Foxhound is a rare dog breed in the U.S., even though they have been around for centuries in England. And yes, it is a cousin of the American Foxhound.
They were bred to hunt foxes across long distance which means they are athletic dogs with serious stamina. Unlike other sighthounds, they hunt through scent.
But, despite being bred to be hunting dogs, English Foxhounds can be wonderful family dogs in the right home. Because of their loving personalities.
They were bred to work in packs, so they are great with other dogs. They are also famous for being patient and tolerant, which makes them good with kids.
English Foxhounds are affectionate and loyal, and they just want to be around their people.
But… they need a lot of exercise. Like, a lot. Daily exercise is a must. Be it the long walks, hikes, or playing in a big yard.
They do best with experienced dog owners who understand their exercise needs and can offer consistent training.
But in the right home, the right dog is absolutely amazing.
7. Harrier
The Harrier is the English Foxhound’s slightly smaller cousin, and they are just as rare in the U.S.
These medium-sized dogs were bred in England to hunt hares (hence the name), and they have got all the athletic ability and stamina you can expect from a hunting breed.
Harriers are friendly, outgoing, and incredibly social. They love being around people and other dogs. Perfect for families with multiple pets. Their even temperament is what makes them really good pets.
Harriers are cheerful, loving, and just happy to be alive. They are not aggressive or overly protective like a guard dog, just friendly and fun.
They need daily exercise to stay happy, since they were bred to run for long distances. Long walks, runs, or hikes are perfect. And because these are intelligent dogs, mental stimulation is needed to keep them from getting bored.
8. Estrela Mountain Dog
Again, most people have not heard of this incredibly rare dog breed.
This dog comes from the mountains of Portugal, where they were bred to guard livestock like sheep from predators. They are large, powerful, and have strong protective instincts. Almost, like a tiger dog, or a “lion dog”?
But they are also incredibly gentle and affectionate.
Their loyalty is top-tier. Estrela Mountain Dogs are deeply devoted to their humans and famous for being patient with kids of the family.
They have got a gorgeous double coat that needs grooming. And they are large dogs so they need space to move around.
Plus, for training, they need experienced owners who can understand their independent nature. Although their exercise needs are pretty moderate. However, you cannot deny them the physical exercise.
If you want a rare dog that’s protective, loyal, and loving, the Estrela is amazing.
9. Finnish Spitz
The Finnish Spitz is a rare breed that is basically the national dog of Finland.
And.. it’s a crime that most people/dog lovers in the U.S. don’t know about them.
We mean, just look at that ravishing red dog breed?
These dogs were bred to hunt small game and birds, and they have a unique trait: they bark to alert hunters to the location of the prey. So, yeah! They are vocal. But for families who don’t mind a little noise.
Finnish Spitzes are friendly, affectionate, and very loyal dogs. They are playful and fun-loving. Plus, that beautiful red coat and foxlike appearance make them stand out.
Again, they have immensely loving vibes, which is why this rare dog could be a great family pet. They are also intelligent dogs. Easy to train.
Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are usually enough. And because they are a rare dog breed, you will definitely turn heads at the dog park.
Grooming needs are moderate. Their dense double coat needs regular brushing during shedding season.
If you want a rare/loyal dog with a fun personality, the Finnish Spitz is a great choice.
10. Hovawart
Last but definitely not least: the Hovawart.
This rare breed comes from Germany. It was originally bred as a guard dog and working dog to protect farms and families. The name literally means “farm watcher” in German.
So yeah, they take their job seriously.
But despite their guarding background, Hovawarts are incredibly loving and devoted family dogs.
They are loyal and bond deeply with their human companions.
Their gentle nature with their family is what makes them great.
Hovawarts are affectionate, patient, and playful. They are great with kids and other pets, as long as they are socialized early. They can be wary of strangers at first, but once they trust you, they are your best friend for life.
Hovawarts do best with experienced owners who understand their protective nature and can provide structure and training. But in the right home, they are absolutely incredible family dogs.
Conclusion
Some dogs are famous.
But the rare dog breeds you never knew could be great family pets are the real heroes.
These unique breeds have everything a family could want… loyalty, affection, intelligence, and personalities that make every day interesting.
Yeah, other breeds like the Canaan Dog, Bedlington Terrier, Pyrenean Shepherd, Skye Terrier, Ibizan Hounds, Bergamasco Sheepdog, and even the Brazilian Mastiff and Tibetan Mastiff have their own amazing stories.
Be it the large game or small game, be it the city or suburbs or the countryside, short coats or curly coats, these dogs are gold. Some of them were extinct after World War II, and some have been around since ancient times.
Some used to hunt otters, and some were bred by the military.
But these ten are the proof that you don’t need a household name to find the perfect family dog.
Just make sure you find reputable breeders if you decide to bring one of these rare breeds home at one point.
Because a dog this special deserves the best start in life.
