Rare Dog Breeds: 30 Most Rare Dog Breeds

Dogs are loyal and devoted friends. There are a huge number of dog breeds – about 400 in the world. Some of them are particularly popular today; others were popular in the past. You may not even know about some breeds of dogs. This article will tell you about the rarest dog breeds in the world, which can be divided into three groups: small, medium, and large. Below is a table with the rarest representatives of the species.

  

Rare Dog Breeds Characteristics – ranged from smallest to biggest

1. Biewer Terrier

Weight	4 – 8 pounds
Height	7 – 11 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black Tan & White, Blue Tan & White
Lifespan	16 years
Suitable for	family

The Biewer Terrier was bred in Germany. There is a legend that once, during dinner, the husband of the German singer Margot Eskens presented his wife a gift of a beaver puppy on a platter. This fact is historical for the breed: the phrase “a la Pom Pon” – which means “a ball of yarn” in French – was added to the name of the breed. The breed standard was finally adopted by Gertrude Beaver in 2007.

2. Lowchen

Weight	10 – 15 pounds
Height	11 – 13 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black, Black & Silver, Black & Tan, Blue, Blue Brindle, Chocolate, Cream, Fawn, Gold, Red, Red Brindle, Red Sable, Silver, White, Black Brindle, Silver Brindle, Gold Brindle, Gold Sable
Lifespan	13 -15 years
Suitable for	family

Lowchens are a breed of decorative dogs of the toy variety. Thanks to the traditional haircut, it has the appearance of a small lion with a heavy mane. Small dogs were the favorites of high-ranking ladies until pugs and King Charles Spaniels came into fashion. 

3. Bedlington Terrier

Weight	17 – 23 pounds
Height	15 – 18 inches
Colors and Patterns	Blue, Blue & Tan, Liver, Liver & Tan, Sandy, Sandy & Tan;
Lifespan	11-16 years
Suitable for	family dog, performing tricks

The Bedlington Terrier is bred in the UK and originally used for hunting. The appearance of the Bedlington terrier is very unusual – he looks very much like a little, white sheep. The character of the Bedlington terrier is peaceful, cheerful, and good-natured.

4. Cesky Terrier

Weight	14 – 24 pounds
Height	10 -13 inches
Colors and Patterns	gray coat with furnishings
Lifespan	12 -15 years
Suitable for	hunter, family

The Cesky terrier is bred in Czechoslovakia and intended for burrow hunting. The creator of this Czech terrier breed is the cynologist, Frantisek Gorak. Gorak set a goal to bring out a small, light terrier suitable for burrow hunting in the Czech Republic. Gorak wanted to get an animal of a similar type as the Silichem terrier, but with a darker color and a lighter build so that it could crawl into narrow burrows.

5. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Weight	18 – 24 pounds
Height	8 – 11 inches
Colors and Patterns	Mustard, Pepper
Lifespan	12 – 15 years
Suitable for	family dog, hunter

The Dandie Dinmont terrier is a fairly ancient breed. Initially, these dogs were created as hunting dogs, so they were gifted with all the necessary characteristics for this: speed of movement and reaction, compact size, and so on. Today, these dogs have turned into pets.

6. Telomian

Weight	18 -28 pounds
Height	15 – 19 inches
Colors and Patterns	Red, White (There may be some variation in coat color)
Lifespan	11 – 15 years
Suitable for	watchdog, farm, family

The Telomian (Malaysian dog) is the only Malaysian breed that is known only in its homeland. No one is engaged in thoroughbred breeding of the species. Most likely, the Malaysian dog was obtained as a result of crossing the Basenji and the Australian dingo. The Telomian is similar to many wild dogs – it is of medium height, the square format has triangular standing ears, and short adjacent fur.

7. Mudi

Weight	18 – 29 pounds
Height	15 – 18 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black, Brown, Gray, White, Yellow, Gray-brown
Lifespan	12 – 14 years
Suitable for	Herding, farm, family, guards

The Mudi is an ancient, Hungarian shepherd dog. After the Second World War, the breed almost disappeared, but it was restored anew. This dog is very brave and energetic, so it is suitable for managing large herds. Also, Mudi is an excellent guard and companion dog. They are used for drug detection and rescue services. The Mudi is suitable for keeping in the house.

8. Norwegian Lundehund

Weight	20 – 30 pounds
Height	12 – 15 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black, Gray, Reddish Brown, White, Yellow
Lifespan	12 – 15 years
Suitable for	Herding, farm, the family dog

The Norwegian Lundehund originates from the northern coast of Norway. It is assumed that his ancestors appeared on the Lofoten Islands during the Ice Age. The features of the dog’s structure allowed researchers to think that the Lundehund comes from the extinct dog canis ferus. The locals used Lundehund to mine puffins. Thanks to its unique anatomical structure, the dog is adept at climbing rocks, caves, and burrows.

9. New Guinea Singing Dog

Weight	20 – 32 pounds
Height	12 – 18 inches
Colors and Patterns	Red – white
Lifespan	6 – 10 years
Suitable for	Wild

The New Guinea singing, which lives in the forests of New Guinea, is a subspecies of the wolf, a feral dog. The classification is controversial and sometimes considered a separate species, canis hallstromi, the same subspecies as the dingo. Probably, ancient people used it for hunting. The singing dog was discovered only in the XX century; therefore, it is extremely poorly studied.

10. Finnish Spitz

Weight	20 – 33 pounds
Height	15 – 20 inches
Colors and Patterns	Red Gold
Lifespan	13 – 15 years
Suitable for	hunter, family

Finnish Spitz originated from dark red aboriginal dogs that inhabited the territory of Finland and modern Karelia and were used for hunting birds and animals. The Finnish Spitz is an independent, strong-willed, and intelligent dog. This breed does not respond well to harsh training methods. They should be trained by the method of positive reinforcement. With patience and calm (but firm) handling, the Finnish Spitz can become an excellent companion.

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11. Swedish Vallhund

Weight	20 – 35 pounds
Height	11 – 13 inches
Colors and Patterns	Gray, Red
Lifespan	12 – 15 years
Suitable for	Herding, farm dog, family

Swedish Vallhund, which looks like a Welsh corgi, is a breed of spitz-like shepherd dogs from Sweden. This dog is a good watchman for the house and also catches rats. It values freedom and movement while not straying far from its master, associating itself with its family. Being in a pack, they get along well with other members, as they do not take food from each other.

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12. Lagotto Romagnolo

Weight	25 – 35 pounds
Height	16 -19 inches
Colors and Patterns	Brown, Orange, White & Brown, White & Orange, Off-White, Brown Roan
Lifespan	15 – 17 years
Suitable for	family dog, bloodhound

  

Lagotto Romagnolo was bred in the north of Italy in the XVI century. Thanks to its unique sense of smell, it is used to search for truffles, which are distributed in Italy, Sweden, Great Britain, France, the USA, and Australia. Despite the fact that the breed is very ancient, it was only officially recognized by the International Cynological Federation in 1995 and on a temporary basis. However, in 2005, it was recognized on a permanent basis.

13. Kai Ken

Weight	20 – 40 pounds
Height	15 – 19 inches
Colors and Patterns	Gray Brindle, Red Brindle, Black Brindle
Lifespan	12 – 15 years
Suitable for	Hunter, family

The Kai Ken is a breed of hunting dog, traditionally used for hunting mountain antelope, but its athleticism allows it to hunt both pheasant and bear. A unique feature of the breed is its brindle color. It also has an innate ability to work in a pack with other Kai. 

14. Blue Lacy

Weight	30 – 50 pounds
Height	18 – 21 inches
Colors and Patterns	Blue, red, tricolor
Lifespan	12 -15 years
Suitable for	Farms, large houses, experienced owners

The Blue Lacy was bred in the 1800s in Texas (USA). It is the only breed bred in this state. In 2005, the governor of Texas signed a law in which the Blue Lacey breed was recognized as the official symbol of Texas. The first official recognition of the breed was received in the second half of the twentieth century.

15. Sloughi

Weight	35 – 50 pounds
Height	24 – 29 inches
Colors and Patterns	Cream, Mahogany, Red, Sandy
Lifespan	10 – 15 years
Suitable for	Hounds, hunter, watchdog

This is a very rare and ancient breed of greyhound dogs. It has incredible agility, and in the countries of North Africa, it is used for hunting hare, gazelle, and wild boar. It can also be used in dog racing. Sloughi traditionally lived in close proximity to the owner’s family and were used as hunting and guard dogs.

16. Xoloitzcuintli

Weight	10 – 55 pounds
Height	10 – 23 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black, Brindle, Bronze, Dark Brown, Fawn, Gray, Liver, Red, White, Palomino
Lifespan	13 – 18 years
Suitable for	family dog

Xoloitzcuintli is one of the oldest breeds in the world. The homeland of these dogs in Mexico. The breed exists in two varieties: hairless and covered with hair. 

The origin of these dogs goes deep into history. In ancient graves in Mexico, mummies of dogs and clay figurines depicting Xoloitzcuintli were found. These finds date back to 5000-3000 years BC. The task of the Xoloitzcuintli was to accompany the souls of the dead to the afterlife. After the Spanish conquest of Mexico, the Xoloitzcuintli began to be exterminated as an object of pagan worship and soon almost disappeared.

17. Schapendoes

Weight	26 – 55 pounds
Height	16 – 20 inches
Colors and Patterns	Beige, Black, Black & White, Brown, Gray, Gray & White, White, Chocolate & White, Tri-Colored
Lifespan	12 -15 years
Suitable for	Herding, farm, family

The Schapendoes were bred by shepherds in the XVI century in the Netherlands. During the Second World War, the number of dogs significantly decreased. As a result, there are only a few of these dogs left. The breed has practically dissolved into crossbreeds of other national species. A Dutch scientist discovered the first remaining specimens of the breed. In 1968, the Schapendoes received official recognition, but the breed has not gained much popularity until now.

18. Azawakh

Weight	33 – 55 pounds
Height	24 – 29 inches
Colors and Patterns	Blue, Brindle, Brown, Cream, Fawn, Gray, Red, Sandy, White
Lifespan	12 – 15 years
Suitable for	family dog, guards

Another name for this breed is the African greyhound. For thousands of years, it was a faithful companion of the nomads of the southern Sahara. After the colonization of this region by France, this breed began to migrate towards Europe, but the Azawaks have not gained much popularity.

19. Stabyhoun

Weight	40 – 60 pounds
Height	19 – 21 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black & White, Brown & White, Orange & White
Lifespan	13 – 15 years
Suitable for	Hunter, watchdog, family

Stabyhoun is a harmonious, proportionally built dogs. Stabihuns are amazing hunters with excellent flair and endurance. They are also wonderful companions and guards. Thanks to their intelligence and easy-going and peaceful nature, these dogs are easy to train and can learn and master various commands.

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20. Xiasi

Weight	25 – 65 pounds
Height	17 – 20 inches
Colors and Patterns	White
Lifespan	10 – 15 years
Suitable for	farm, hunter

This dog was bred in the Chinese province of Guizhou and has been recognized by the Kennel Club of China. The animal has characteristics that make it an ideal hunting dog. It is hardy, which allows it to drive prey with impressive speed and ease.

21. Thai Ridgeback

Weight	35 – 75 pounds
Height	20 – 24 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black, Blue, Red, Yellow
Lifespan	12 – 13 years
Suitable for	farm, family dog

 The Thai Ridgeback, one of the oldest breeds, is the national breed of Thailand. To this day, historians continue to put forward new theories about the origin of these dogs. The place of origin of the Thai Ridgeback cannot be precisely determined, since the habitat of the breed is not only Thailand but also Vietnam, Cambodia, and Indonesia. The isolation and poor transport interchange of Thailand protected the Ridgeback from crossing with other breeds. Thanks to this fact, the Thai Ridgeback is considered purebred in our time.

22. Chinook

Weight	50 – 90 pounds
Height	22 – 26 inches
Colors and Patterns	Fawn, Red Gold, Silver Fawn, Tawny, Palomino, Gray Red
Lifespan	12 – 15 years
Suitable for	Sledding, family

The Chinook was bred in the United States at the beginning of the XX century by the American cynologist Arthur Walden. These are sled dogs that can move quickly and carry heavy loads. They are well adapted for working in conditions of negative temperatures.

23. Hovawart

Weight	65 – 90 pounds
Height	23 – 28 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black, Blonde
Lifespan	10 – 14 years
Suitable for	Watchdog, family

The Hovawart is easily trained, has a stable psyche, and lacks aggression towards a person. The first mention dates back to 1274. It was officially recognized as a separate breed in 1932. In the manuscripts of the XIII century, the Hovawart is mentioned for the first time, distinguished from other breeds under the name “hovevart” or “hofvart,” which means “guardian of the yard” in German.

24. Catahoula Leopard

Weight	50 -95 pounds
Height	22 – 24 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black, Blue, Blue Merle, Brindle, Chocolate, Red, Yellow, Red Merle, White Merle, Yellow Merle
Lifespan	10 – 14 years
Suitable for	Hunter, family

The exact origin of the Catahoula leopard is unknown. According to one theory, it was bred by crossing Native American dogs with red wolves. Another theory denies the presence of wolf blood in the genes of Catachules. In 1979, the Louisiana government declared the Catahoula leopard dog the official symbol of the state.

25. Northern Inuit Dog

Weight	55 – 110 pounds
Height	23 – 32 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black & White, Black Tan & White, Brown & White, Gray & White, Sable & White, White
Lifespan	12 – 15 years
Suitable for	family

This breed was obtained by crossing a Siberian husky, a German shepherd, and an aboriginal Inuit dog. The result was dogs that look like wolves but with the habits of a pet. This breed has not received recognition from any major dog breeders’ club, but they are included in many organizations related to the breeding of Inuit dogs and forest dogs.

26. Otterhound

Weight	80 -115 pounds
Height	24 – 27 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black, Black & Tan, Gray, Liver & Tan, Tan, Wheaten, Blue & Cream
Lifespan	10 – 13 years
Suitable for	Hunter, family

The otterhound was bred in the UK and is one of the descendants of the bloodhound and the ancestors of the Airedale terrier. A fairly large breed with a stiff coat, it was originally bred for hunting. Otterhounds have a good nose and, by nature, they are very friendly.

27. Irish Wolfhound

Weight	105 – 120 pounds
Height	30 – 32 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black, Blue, Brindle, Cream, Gray, Gray & Brindle, Red, Red & Brindle, Red Wheaten, Silver, White, Wheaten, Wheaten & Brindle
Lifespan	6 – 8 years
Suitable for	hunter, farm, family

This breed is one of the biggest dogs in the world. Irish wolfhounds were used for baiting big game — wolves and deer. Their character is calm and kind. The Irish wolfhound is now popular in many countries outside of Ireland.

28. Estrela Mountain

Weight	77 – 132 pounds
Height	24 – 29 inches
Colors and Patterns	Brindle, Fawn, Wolfgray, Yellow
Lifespan	10 – 14 years
Suitable for	Herding, farm, family

This breed originated from the Iberian Peninsula. The name of the breed was given in honor of the Estrela mountain range, which historically had the largest population of these dogs. Australian shepherds have an independent, balanced character and a calm temperament. They are not characterized by a manifestation of cowardice or excessive aggression.

29. Tibetan Mastiff

Weight	70 – 150 pounds
Height	24 – 26 inches
Colors and Patterns	Black, Black & Tan, Brown, Red Gold, Brown & Tan, Blue Gray, Red Gold Sable, Blue Gray & Tan
Lifespan	10 – 12 years
Suitable for	watchdog

This oldest breed lived at Tibetan monasteries, protecting its surrounding territory and inhabitants. Until recently, almost nothing was known about them; but now, even though the breed’s name is widely known, it is still complicated to meet purebred dogs of this breed.

30. Boerboel

Weight	150 – 200 pounds
Height	22 – 27 inches
Colors and Patterns	Brindle, Brown, Cream, Red, Reddish Brown, Tawny
Lifespan	9 – 11 years
Suitable for	Watchdog, Herding, farm dog

Boerboels are powerful and hardy dogs. Insufficient physical activity can cause hyperactivity and spontaneous aggression in dogs of this breed, leading to attacks on strangers. Boerboels are very dominant and do not recognize anyone except their owner, and even then, they can be very stubborn. 

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