15 Rare Dogs You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

If you think you have seen all dog breeds on the planet, think again! Beyond the usual dogs in the park, there’s a world-class rare dog breed you’ve never seen before. We’re talking about dogs with extra toes and pups that can withstand head butts. These rare breeds aren’t just unusual; they’re living proof of how wonderfully weird a man’s best friend can be. Let’s explore 15 of the rarest dog breeds in the world.

Otterhound

The Otterhounds are shaggy and specifically built for water. With webbed feet and a rough coat, they easily swim through clear and murky waters. These dogs were developed for otter hunting, just as their name suggests. So, if you want to own an otterhound, know they are very energetic.

Azawakh

Azawakhs form a close bond with their families but can also be aggressive when encountering strangers. These sleek dog breeds, with their elegantly built bodies, are from West Africa. They have a reputation for chasing gazelles across the Sahara and make loyal companions to humans (when they aren’t on a chase).

Mudi

From Hungary, Mudis are farm dogs that do it all. They herd, hunt, and even catch rats. With curly coats and bright eyes, they’re cute and intelligent, melting the hearts of anyone who cares to look their way. Mudis are extremely versatile dog breeds and love to please their owners.

Lagotto Romagnolo

Lagottos are the only purebred in the world to be called a truffle hunter. These Italian pooches are medium-sized with a curly, waterproof coat. Their coats help them survive in any weather and are the perfect companion for any water sports lover. However, when you bring this dog breed to your home, you must be willing to dedicate extended hours to training them.

Stabyhoun

Even though they may be kind of willful, Dutch Stabyhouns are obedient and patient dogs who love to please their owner. With only about 4,000 worldwide, they’re super rare. Their inquisitive nature keeps them in trouble, but with proper guidance, they can be true friends for life.

Chinook

Friendly and hard-working, Chinooks are all-American sled dogs. They mix strength and speed for the perfect pull. Their name means “warm winter winds” in Inuit. Chinooks are people-oriented and calm, and they do exceptionally well with kids. A few activities they’ve mastered are carting, agility, search and rescue, and herding.

Karelian Bear Dog

Don’t let the name scare you; these Finnish dogs make loyal pets. Due to their bravery and quickness, they were once big-game hunters. Karelian Bear Dogs have a sharp sense of smell that makes them very good at hunting. These dog breeds are self-confident and love to be left alone, something most dogs detest.

New Guinea Singing Dog

These dog breeds are known to produce unique howls, which is believed to be a mode of communication with members of their pack. Singing Dogs have a distinctive appearance that makes them look more like wolves than typical pets. However, they may only be around for a short time because they currently face extinction.

Thai Ridgeback

Thai Ridgebacks have a cool feature: a ridge of backward-growing hair on their backs. They originate from Thailand, so you can only find them on the streets periodically (or never). The Thai Ridgeback is a muscular dog breed with excellent jumping ability. If you properly socialize them, they will do well as loving pets and will naturally be protective of their homes.

Catalburun

Turkish Catalburuns stand out with split noses and floppy ears. This unique look comes from careful breeding. The Catalburun is rare even in Turkey and almost unknown in other parts of the world. Since this dog breed has short hair, it only needs minimal grooming to appear clean.

Peruvian Inca Orchid

Despite the flowery name, these dogs are tough. Often hairless, their skin comes in many colors. Fast and smart, they were once the pets of Inca nobles. They need sun protection and do well in warm climates. Additionally, the Peruvian Inca Orchid is prone to getting overweight when overfed.

Telomian

Telomians are athletic dogs initially bred by the Malaysians to help catch rats and snakes. They’re agile and smart. Because Telomians are not as tame as other dogs, they need rigorous training and early socialization. In fact, they don’t do well with kids.

Catahoulas

Catahoulas are from Louisiana and have striking spotted coats. Strong, muscular, and agile, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is a multi-talented working dog.

They’re fiercely loyal to their families but can be stubborn. If you need a dog that will not condone any form of mistreatment, then Catahoulas have earned that reputation

Swedish Vallhund

These small dogs look like Corgi-wolf mixes. Although Vallhunds may look small in size, they are tough herders. With cheerful personalities, they make great family pets. Thanks to their build, they can nip at cattle’s heels more easily and dodge kicks. Vallhund’s unique traits are power, balance, and fluidity of movement.

Norwegian Lundehund

Lundehunds have wild features: six toes per foot, flexible necks, and ears that close. Once puffin hunters on steep cliffs, they’re excellent climbers. They are playful and friendly and make a good companion. When considering getting a Norwegian Lundehund,  it is advised to prioritize adoption from rescue groups or shelters.