10 Rare Puppy Breeds You Should Know About

August 13, 2019

You’ve heard of common and popular breeds like the Golden Retriever and the Rottweiler. But have you ever heard of the Komondor or the Thai Ridgeback? Out of the hundreds of recognized dog breeds, our list ranks some of the most beautiful and rarest dog breeds in the world. These cute and cuddly pooches aren’t exactly for everyone, but they may just be the furry soulmate you’re looking for!

Here are 10 rare puppy breeds you should know about:

1. Canaan Dog

Medium-sized and highly intelligent, the Canaan Dog is a breed that originally came from Israel, and was bred to herd livestock. It’s known to be very alert and protective over its family, which often means it is aloof with strangers. This breed also thrives with dog sports and other activities that physically and mentally engage it. 

Due to its cautious nature, it’s crucial to train and socialize the Canaan Dog as a puppy so that it can grow accustomed to meeting other people. With the right family, this furry cutie can be a perfect hard-working furry friend!

2. Cesky Terrier

The Cesky Terrier looks a lot like a Miniature Schnauzer or a Scottish Terrier. The main difference between this breed with the other terriers is that it is very adept at hunting. It’s also a lot more serene and laid back than most terriers. 

Originally from Bohemia (in the Czech Republic), the Cesky is a cute, playful, and energetic pooch that can adapt to many types of households. It can be alert and territorial but lacks the defensiveness of many terriers. It’s also good with young children, and its high intelligence makes them easy to train. 

Cesky Terriers are quite rare, however, so if you are ever able to bring one home, you will surely have a wonderful lifelong companion!

3. Komondor

The Komondor is a large and powerful dog that’s courageous and loyal. It has a beautiful “mop-like” coat, giving the breed its unique appearance. The Komondor breed was originally from Hungary, where it was bred to herd sheep. This gives the breed its naturally energetic personality and bravery. Despite their goofy appearance, this breed is only ideal for owners who are willing to maintain them.

Komondors are independent but can be stubborn and high-maintenance, especially due to their coat. From puppyhood, they will need constant training and socialization to help them grow into well-adjusted adult dogs. 

4. Xoloitzcuintli

Loyal and alert, the Xoloitzcuintli is an old hairless breed that originated in Mexico. The breed comes as a hairless and coated type; both of which require consistent maintenance. The Xolo also comes in three sizes: toy, miniature and standard. These doggies are incredibly graceful, mild, and energetic. They need lots of exercise to use up their energy.

Xolos are also very smart and responsive when it comes to training. They can adapt to most household environments, and are loyal to their owners. If hairless, your Xolo will require special skin care, like lotion or sunscreen before venturing outside. 

5. Schipperke

The Schipperke is a confident and curious breed that have a cute “fox-like” appearance. They are also small in size, reaching up to 11-13 inches at the shoulder. Like many small dogs, their personalities are quite large. Don’t ever mistake their small size as cowardice —Schipperkes are fearless and bold when needed.

This breed is also mischievous and can be stubborn (this means early training is a must!). Once they’re a part of a family, they are utterly devoted to their loved ones. As adult dogs, the Schipperke retains their puppy-like curiosity and energy!

6. Thai Ridgeback

Thai Ridgebacks are an independent, agile breed that is at least 4,000 years old. These furry cuties are medium-large in size and can weigh around 35-75 pounds. Their beautiful coat comes in 4 colors: blue, black, red and fawn. Red-coated dogs occasionally have a black mask on their faces.

This pooch is very tough and active, requiring lots of exercise to be happy. Thai Ridgebacks are also clean and protective over their homes and families. They can be wary of strangers, so it’s important to socialize them early. The ideal owner for these beautiful dogs is someone who is patient and consistent. 

7. Otterhound

The Otterhound is an old British breed that’s extremely rare today. In fact, there are less than 800 otterhounds in existence worldwide. These furry cuties are super friendly, gentle, and full of energy. Owners of this beautiful breed often describe them as absolute goofballs. They can be sensitive so soft training with positive reinforcement is important. 

They are very eager to please their owners, and love being praised. Patience and consistency is key to teaching this breed the rules of the house (and world!). Otterhounds have a lovely shaggy coat, webbed feet, and a talent for swimming.

8. Lagotto Romagnolo

The Lagotto Romagnolo is one of the most affectionate dogs on this list. Their cute face, curly coat, and talent for sniffing makes them Italy’s most adorable pooch. This breed can weigh up to 35 pounds and are medium-sized (reaching 17-19 inches).

Lagotto Romagnolos require mental and physical stimulation, so their owners must be up for daily playtime sessions and challenges. Despite their cute, teddy-bear appearance, this breed is very durable and built for endurance. They also need to be with their families often; otherwise, they may resort to destructive behavior. 

9. Norwegian Lundehund

Originally bred for puffin hunting, the Norwegian Lundehund is a friendly furry companion that’s both alert and energetic. This breed often weighs only 13-16 pounds and are excellent climbers. Norwegian Lundehunds are quite clever and affectionate with their families. They enjoy playing and performing a form of activity at least once a day. 

This breed can be pretty sensitive and can grow to distrust their owners if harsh training methods are used. Be sure to train and socialize this breed as puppies with positive techniques and treats. Norwegian Lundehunds are fun-loving pups that would be perfect for any family!

10. Azawakh

Another deeply affectionate breed, the Azawakh is an active breed that loves to run. It is a highly intelligent and independent dog that does not do well with punishment or harsh training techniques. An Azawakh can be aloof and reserved with everyone, even their own owners, but are extremely loyal to their families. It is also very obedient and protective.

Because of their need for activity, the Azawakh requires exercise on a daily basis. If you’re an active owner or love to run, this breed is the best running buddy you can have.

While we understand how cute and rare dogs on this list are, be sure to conduct research on all kinds of breeds to find the best match for you. If your furry soulmate ends up being one of the breeds on this list, we hope you have the best life with them! 

Looking for more breeds? Check our list of Top 10 Best Guard Dog Breeds for beautiful yet tough dogs!