The most popular dog breeds seem to be everywhere – if you went outside right now, you’re almost definitely going to see a Black Lab, Golden Retriever or sausage dog. But if you’re someone who prefers to stay unique and original, there are plenty of more rare dog breeds that’ll have heads turning on the street.
In fact, you’ve probably never even heard of these special pooches. Purina has rounded up the most rare and unique breeds of dog for owners looking to do something different.
Purina said: “From the Sahara Desert to the Norwegian islands, there are many amazing dog breeds that have kept a dedicated local fan base throughout centuries. And even though they are yet to reach the world fame of the beloved Golden Retriever or the popularity of the Poodle breeds, they are special in so many ways.
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“These are the rare dog breeds, saved from going extinct but still not with us in large enough numbers to make dog lovers comfortable.”
From British-bred pooches to those from as far away as the Western Sahara, you’re unlikely to have come across these breeds before. Here are six of the most rare dog breeds.
6 of the rarest dog breeds you probably haven’t heard of
Azawakh -Credit:Elizabeth LEMOINE/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images
1. Azawakh
This elegant, rare dog breed originates from the lands of Western Sahara.
While you’re still unlikely to meet one of them on their daily walk through your neighbourhood, Azawakh dogs have been found globally since the 1970s. If you do find one to adopt, they need plenty of exercise to let off steam.
2. Otterhound
One of the world’s rarest dog breeds, the Otterhound is a British native that was once the trusted otter hunter partner of Medieval fishermen, according to the experts at Purina.
But with less than 1,000 Otterhounds in existence around the world, this disappearing breed is an unusual sight these days.
3. Lagotto Romagnolo
Lagotto Romagnolo -Credit:Shirlaine Forrest/Getty Images
This Italian cutie is smart and easy to train, with impressive sniffing abilities and waterproof coats for the occasional water adventure.
The Lagotto Romangolo almost went extinct in the 1970s, but enthusiasts managed to save the breed before it was too late.
While they’re very rare, they can happily still be found today.
4. Mudi
Mudi -Credit:Virginia Sherwood/NBC via Getty Images
This unusual-looking Hungarian herding dog has buckets of energy, and they were originally bred for farming.
They excel in agility competitions- although you’re unlikely to see many of them.
5. Norwegian Lundehund
The dog experts explain that this ancient breed has been around since the last Ice Age.
While they previously nearly went extinct, this Norwegian breed is thankfully still around.
They are ideal companions that make a perfect hiking partner.
6. Finnish Spitz
This fox-like pooch is smart, active and fearless.
Their beautiful red coat can lead them to be easily mistaken for their fox cousins, but these pooches are as dog-like as any when it comes to their bark.
