Ever come across a dog that makes you do a double-take? With over 200 recognized breeds by the American Kennel Club (AKC), there’s bound to be a few that stand out in the most unexpected ways.
Imagine a dog that doesn’t bark but yodels or one that sports a hairless, sleek appearance. Intrigued? You’re about to embark on a journey through the world of canines that defy the norm.
These nine breeds challenge our typical notions of man’s best friend, each bringing its own unique flair and characteristics. Ready to meet these extraordinary pups? Let’s dive in!
Strangest Dog Breeds
1. Otterhound
Otterhounds are among the rarest dog breeds, with fewer than 1,000 left in the world. Originally bred in medieval England for otter hunting, they were highly valued for their unmatched tracking skills in water.
Their shaggy, waterproof coat is as practical as it is charming. It keeps them warm in cold waters and gives them a delightfully scruffy look that makes them stand out.
Webbed feet give them an edge when it comes to swimming. These natural paddles help them glide effortlessly through lakes and rivers, making them true water-loving dogs.
They have an extraordinary sense of smell, ranking among the best scent hounds in the world. Their noses can detect scents over great distances, even days later.
Despite their history as hunters, Otterhounds are full of affection and goofy energy. They love being around their families and tend to form strong bonds with their humans.
Their distinctive, deep baying voice once helped hunters locate them during long chases. Today, that same sound is more likely to echo through your home as they try to ‘chat’ with you.
Weighing up to 115 pounds and standing over two feet tall, they command attention wherever they go. With their shaggy coats, boundless enthusiasm, and love for water, they are truly one of the weirdest dog breeds you’ll ever see.
2. Bergamasco Sheepdog
Ever seen a dog with a coat that looks like it’s wearing dreadlocks? That’s the Bergamasco Sheepdog for you! This ancient breed hails from the Italian Alps and is renowned for its unique matted coat, which isn’t just for show—it provided insulation against the cold and protection from predators.
Their coat is a fascinating blend of three types of hair: a dense undercoat, a rough “goat hair” layer, and a woolly topcoat. These combine to form flat, felt-like mats called “flocks,” giving them that signature shaggy appearance.
But don’t let their rugged look fool you; Bergamascos are incredibly intelligent and independent thinkers. Historically, they worked closely with shepherds, often making decisions on their own to protect and herd livestock in mountainous terrains.
Their patient and calm demeanor makes them excellent companions for families. They are known to be gentle with children and can get along well with other pets when properly socialized.
Standing between 21 to 24 inches tall and weighing between 57 to 84 pounds, they have a sturdy build that’s well-suited for their herding duties.
Despite their heavy-looking coat, Bergamascos are relatively low-maintenance. Once their flocks are fully formed, they require minimal grooming, and their coat naturally repels dirt and debris.
Their deep-set eyes, often partially covered by their hair, exude an expression of wisdom and attentiveness. This, combined with their unique appearance, certainly places them among the more unusual and intriguing dog breeds.
3. Polish Lowland Sheepdog
The Polish Lowland Sheepdog, affectionately known as the PON, is a medium-sized, sturdy herding dog originating from Poland. Their long, shaggy double coat, often covering their eyes, gives them a distinctive and endearing appearance.
Renowned for their intelligence and excellent memory, PONs are quick learners but can exhibit a stubborn streak. This combination requires consistent and patient training from dedicated dog owners.
Their strong herding instincts make them natural guard dogs, always vigilant and protective of their family. This trait, coupled with their loyalty, makes them excellent companions.
Despite their working dog heritage, PONs are adaptable and can thrive in various living situations, including apartments, provided they receive ample exercise and mental stimulation.
Their thick, weather-resistant coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting. While this may seem demanding, many pet owners find the grooming routine a bonding experience.
PONs are known for their lively yet self-controlled temperament. They are affectionate with their families but may be reserved with strangers, showcasing their discerning nature.
Standing between 17 to 20 inches tall and weighing 35 to 55 pounds, PONs are muscular dogs possessing a compact build. Their unique appearance and spirited personality undoubtedly place them among the more intriguing dog breeds.
4. Skye Terrier
Originating from Scotland’s Isle of Skye, the Skye Terrier is a distinctive breed known for its elongated body and flowing unique coat. This unique look sets them apart from other terriers.
Historically, Skye Terriers were originally bred to hunt foxes and badgers, showcasing their tenacity and courage. Their low stature and sturdy build made them adept at navigating rocky terrains.
Despite their hunting origins, they are affectionate and loyal to their families, often forming strong bonds with their owners. However, they can be reserved with strangers, reflecting their discerning nature.
Skye Terriers are intelligent dogs and exhibit a strong-willed demeanor, requiring consistent training and early socialization to ensure well-rounded behavior. Their independent spirit is a hallmark of the breed.
Their long, straight coat, which can be black, gray, or fawn, requires regular grooming to prevent matting. This grooming routine is essential to maintain their elegant appearance.
Standing about 9 to 10 inches tall and measuring up to 40 inches in length, Skye Terriers possess a distinctive silhouette that captures attention. Their expressive eyes and feathery ears add to their unique charm.
Due to their declining numbers, the Skye Terrier is now considered one of the United Kingdom’s rare dog breeds, making them a treasured companion for those who appreciate their rich history and distinctive qualities.
5. Azawakh
The Azawakh is an ancient West African sighthound, treasured by nomadic tribes for centuries. Unlike many other dogs, they are deeply intertwined with the culture of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, where they were valued as guardians and companions.
With their tall, lean bodies, Azawakhs are strikingly elegant, built for speed and endurance. Beneath their fine, short coat, their muscles are so defined that every movement showcases their power. Their coat, which comes in shades of sand, red, or brindle, adds to their unique-looking dog status.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) stated that a hallmark of this breed is its light, almost floating gait. Unlike most dogs, they move with a unique rhythm, covering vast distances without effort, making them perfectly suited for desert life. This natural grace is mesmerizing to watch.
Deeply loyal, Azawakhs form incredibly close bonds with their families and can be reserved with strangers. This makes them excellent companions for older children who understand their gentle yet independent nature.
Despite their elegant frame, they possess large bones, giving them unexpected strength. Their resilience and intelligence make them quick learners, but they prefer forming connections rather than following strict commands.
One of the most fascinating traits of Azawakhs is their amazing healing powers as they recover very fast from scrapes and cuts. Traditionally, nomadic tribes believed these dogs brought good fortune and even had an intuitive ability to sense their owner’s emotions.
In their native region, these dogs are esteemed hunters and serve as vigilant guardians of their communities. Their keen senses and protective instincts make them invaluable to guard livestock and alerting their families to potential threats.
6. American English Coonhound
The American English Coonhound is a vibrant and energetic breed, renowned for its hunting prowess and affectionate nature. This breed originated from the Southern United States, where they were developed from hunting hounds brought by European settlers during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Physically, these dogs have an athletic build and are lean, boasting a strong build that enables considerable speed and endurance. Their coat is short to medium in length and comes in various colorations, including redtick, bluetick, and tricolor patterns.
One of the most endearing traits of the American English Coonhound is its sociable and pleasant demeanor. They are known to be friendly with humans and other dogs, making them excellent companions for active families.
These hounds are also known for their unique, expressive personalities and talkative nature. While not all coonhounds show their emotions through barking, they commonly “chat” with their owners when it’s time to eat, go outside, or simply when they feel bored.
Regular exercise is essential for this breed, as they possess high energy levels and a strong hunting instinct. Engaging them in activities like running or playing fetch can help satisfy their need for physical stimulation.
Training an American English Coonhound requires patience and consistency. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods, so early socialization is crucial to ensure they develop into well-rounded adults.
Health-wise, this striking breed is generally robust but can be prone to certain conditions like hip dysplasia and ear infections. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a balanced diet are vital to keep them in optimal health.
7. Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is a small toy breed known for its distinctive appearance and affectionate nature. This breed comes in two varieties: the Hairless, which has smooth skin with tufts of hair on the head, feet, and tail; and the Powderpuff, which boasts a full, soft coat.
Despite their delicate look, they are quite agile and excel in activities like agility courses. Their bodies are well-suited for running and jumping, and they are eager to please their trainers.
These dogs form strong bonds with their human companions, often becoming deeply attached and thriving on affection. Their playful demeanor and gentle disposition make them excellent family pets, especially in households where they can be the center of attention.
One of the breed’s most charming features is its large, erect ears, which add to their expressive faces and alert appearance. These ears not only enhance their unique look but also reflect their attentive and curious nature.
Chinese Crested dogs are known to be loving and playful with children. However, children should be taught not to be rough with this breed, as it does not have the protective hair that other breeds have and can get injured easily.
They are small dogs with moderate energy levels, meaning they don’t require extensive exercise. A few short walks each day and some indoor playtime are usually sufficient to keep them happy and healthy.
Interestingly, the dog has gained attention in unique ways; for instance, a 12-year-old Chinese Crested named Muppet recently won the title of Britain’s ‘ugliest dog,’ highlighting the breed’s distinctive and endearing features.
8. Cirneco dell’Etna
According to Purina, the Cirneco dell’Etna is a captivating breed hailing from the Mediterranean island of Sicily, with a lineage tracing back over 2,500 years. This ancient breed is named after Mount Etna, the prominent volcano where these dogs were historically used for hunting.
As medium-sized dogs, Cirnechi typically stand between 16.5 to 19.5 inches tall and weigh between 17 and 26 pounds, with males being larger than females. Their slender yet muscular build, combined with their keen senses, makes them exceptional hunters.
Traditionally, the Cirneco dell’Etna was utilized for hunting small game, particularly rabbits, in the challenging terrains surrounding Mount Etna. Their ability to work tirelessly for hours without food or water showcases their remarkable endurance.
Despite being hunting dogs, Cirnechi are known for their affectionate and gentle nature, making them great family pets. They form strong bonds with their human companions and are known to be attentive and vigilant, qualities that endear them to many.
These athletic dogs possess a natural agility and grace, excelling in activities such as lure coursing and agility trials. Their slender bodies and sharp senses make them natural athletes, capable of incredible bursts of speed.
One of the breed’s most distinctive features is its large, triangular ears that stand erect, contributing to their alert expression. Their almond-shaped eyes exude intelligence and attentiveness, further highlighting their keen awareness.
Despite their ancient origins, Cirnechi have remained relatively unchanged over the centuries, preserving their unique characteristics as hunting breeds. This resilience and adaptability have ensured their survival and continued appreciation among dog enthusiasts worldwide.
9. Xoloitzcuintli
PetMD stated that the Xoloitzcuintli, often called the Xolo, is one of the world’s rarest and oldest breeds, with a history spanning over 3,000 years. This ancient canine, native to Mexico, holds deep cultural significance and is often referred to as the Mexican Hairless Dog.
At first glance, the Xolo’s hairless appearance might seem weird looking to some, but this unique trait has practical benefits, such as reduced shedding and minimal grooming needs. There is also a coated variety with a short, sleek coat.
Historically, Xolos were believed to possess healing properties and were thought to ward off evil spirits. Their warm skin was used as a natural heating pad for ailments like arthritis, showcasing their role as therapeutic furry friends.
The breed comes in three sizes: toy, miniature, and standard, offering versatility for different living situations. Regardless of size, Xolos are known for their calm demeanor and are deeply loyal to their families.
Xolos have keen senses and are naturally alert, making them excellent watchdogs. Their vigilant nature ensures they promptly alert their owners to any unusual activity, reflecting their best senses.
Despite their ancient lineage, Xolos are relatively rare today. Their unique characteristics and rich history make them a treasure among dog enthusiasts seeking a breed with depth and distinction.
Caring for a Xolo requires attention to their skin, especially the hairless variety. Hill’s Pet stated that regular bathing and moisturizing are essential to keep their skin healthy, and protection from extreme temperatures is crucial due to their lack of fur.
Conclusion
The world of weird dog breeds is filled with fascinating stories, unusual traits, and personalities that stand out. From ancient lineages to rare physical characteristics, these dogs challenge our expectations of what man’s best friend can be. Each one carries a rich history, making them more than just companions.
With many dogs to choose from, finding the right one depends on lifestyle and personal preference. Some thrive in active households, while others prefer quieter environments. What remains constant is their unwavering loyalty and the joy they bring to their families.
For those captivated by rare and unique breeds, names like the Catalburun Dog Breed and the Andean Tiger Hound are great options to explore. Their histories are just as intriguing, offering a glimpse into canine evolution across different regions and cultures.
If you appreciate dogs with remarkable features, the Norwegian Lundehund (six toes on each foot), Peruvian Hairless, Peruvian Inca Orchid, and Brussels Griffon stand out. Each has defining traits that make it extraordinary, proving that beauty and uniqueness come in many forms.
Those who prefer dogs with a strong presence might find the Neapolitan Mastiff or Bergamasco Shepherd particularly interesting. Their commanding looks and loyal nature have made them beloved choices for centuries. English Foxhound and Cesky Terrier also bring distinct characteristics that dog lovers admire.
Whether you’re drawn to a Finnish Spitz for its spirited personality or simply love learning about rare dog breeds, the diversity within the canine world is endless. If you enjoyed discovering these unique breeds, share this article with fellow dog enthusiasts!
