Breeds
The Rarest and Least Known Dog Breeds
We're quite used to recognizing dog breeds when we walk our furry friend through the park. Greyhounds, Chihuahuas, Labradors, Yorkshires, and so on. Yet there are close to 400 recognized dog breeds today. Do you really think you know them all?
There are many highly peculiar, exclusive dog breeds that aren't as well known as the ones we're used to seeing. That's why today we're presenting the most obscure dog breeds. You're going to be surprised!
Bedlington Terrier
Bedlington Terrier
If there's one dog that's curious above all others, it's the Bedlington Terrier. The shape of its skull, its pale color, and the tufts of hair on its legs, ear tips, and head give it a look strikingly similar to a sheep.
Its name comes from the English mining town of Bedlington, where it originated. Originally, these dogs were bred for racing and catching vermin. They've also been recognized as good guard dogs.
Besides needing quite a bit of daily exercise, this breed has a calm, easygoing temperament when properly trained from puppyhood, and weighs around 10 kg. It's worth noting that these charming medium-sized dogs aren't big fans of cats.
Catalburun
Catalburun
The Catalburun, or Turkish Pointer, is native to Turkey and nearly unknown in the rest of the world. Its name means "fork nose," and one look is all it takes to see that its muzzle is what makes this dog special.
This trait comes from a genetic deformity, giving it a split, fork-like muzzle. Beyond that, the Catalburun is also known for its reputation as a good hunter and its excellent sense of smell.
This medium-to-large dog, weighing around 25 kg as an adult, is very independent. That said, if socialized from puppyhood, they make ideal companions.
Catahoula Leopard Dog
Is it a leopard or a dog? Despite its striking resemblance to that big cat because of its spotted coat, this beautiful animal is a dog of American origin with excellent skills for climbing trees, protecting the home, herding livestock, and hunting.
The Catahoula Leopard Dog, also known as the Leopard Spotted Dog, comes specifically from the city of Catahoula, in the state of Louisiana, hence its name. It's intelligent, very affectionate and expressive, and needs plenty of exercise.
This breed, traditionally raised as a farm dog, is large-sized. However, it has a small number of registered individuals, so it hasn't yet been recognized by the American Kennel Club.
Xoloitzcuintle
Xoloitzcuintle
The Xoloitzcuintle, or Xolo, the Mexican hairless dog, is native to Mexico, and its name comes from the Mexican god Xolotl. This breed is believed to be more than 4,000 years old and to have existed during the Aztec, Toltec, and Colima cultures.
Its main trait is the absence of hair, similar to the Peruvian hairless dog, which it strongly resembles. Today it's found in various sizes: toy, medium, and standard.
As for temperament, these dogs make ideal companions — very cheerful, affectionate, and playful, though a bit shy. That said, they need special skin care, since their bare skin makes them especially prone to injury.
Tibetan Mastiff
Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff is a huge, furry breed from Tibet. Traditionally, this beautiful dog was bred to support the work shepherds did in the Himalayas, and to guard Tibetan monasteries.
Its imposing, elegant presence, along with its dense coat, gives this dog a lion-like look. Thanks to this coat, which can come in different colors, the breed can withstand the cold winter months in such harsh places.
As for temperament, the Tibetan Mastiff is reserved, shy, and independent. Its noble expression reveals a very gentle dog. It's also an excellent guard dog. Lastly, this breed needs a lot of attention and exercise given its huge size and energy.
Other Lesser-Known Dog Breeds
Want to keep discovering curious, little-known dog breeds? Don't miss the list below.
Affenpinscher
This small, sturdy breed stands out for its monkey-like face. Besides that quirk, it's a very family-oriented, playful, affectionate dog.
Azawakh
This dog is very rarely seen on European streets. It's of African origin and has a reserved, agile, fast nature.
Basenji
This exotic breed is also African and very hard to see outside that continent. Its biggest quirk is that dogs of this breed don't bark. That said, they do make distinctive sounds when excited. They're also very independent.
Bergamasco
This herding breed is native to the Italian Alps. If there's one striking thing about this breed, it's its long, "dreadlocked" coat, which protects it from the cold.
Borzoi
Descended from the Arabian Greyhound, this breed was traditionally bred to hunt wolves and hares, though it later found homes with American and English aristocrats thanks to its striking beauty.
Chinese Crested
Meet the winner of recent dog beauty contests — but not for being beautiful. Its distinctive head crest and large ears have earned it the title of Ugliest Dog in the World. This breed comes with and without hair, and it's also one of the rarest and least known around.
Norwegian Lundehund
Originally bred to hunt puffins, this Norwegian breed has 6 toes on each paw, the result of evolving to improve its grip on rocks. It can also turn its head backward over its spine and stretch its legs 90 degrees.
Finnish Spitz
This fox-like dog, with pointed ears and a fluffy tail curled forward, isn't very well known either. Even so, it's a breed known for its agility.
IMPORTANT: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary, nutritional or behavioural advice. Every dog is different, and only your trusted vet can advise you on its specific needs.