Some dog breeds are more popular than others; that’s how life has always been, and that is how life will always be. There’s no getting around that. Trends change a little, though, and dogs tend to go in and out of popularity. Some dog breeds, however, are facing extinction. A lack of knowledge and a lack of popularity are not kind to them.
A sad-looking Pit Bull lays in dog bed with blanket.Image via Shutterstock/Cavan-Images
One of these breeds is looking at extinction as soon as 2050, and it’s absolutely heartbreaking. The Skye Terrier is easily one of the cutest dogs in existence, and in this video from Tuesday, October 7th, we got to see this breed in all their glory.
Her mom says not to get dogs “based on looks,” but if you ask me, she’s stunning! These fluffy teddy bears deserve the whole entire world:
I’m so grateful that @katylouise3146 is bringing attention to this dying breed. Without them, how many people would go their whole lives never seeing this dog? Unfortunately, though, they’re still in danger of going extinct, even with some people trying to raise awareness for them.
This is the Skye Terrier, and specifically, this one’s name is Murdy. You wouldn’t know it by his sweet demeanor, acting like he’s the only dog who ever existed, but Murdy is one of only a few thousand Skye Terriers left in the world. Current estimates say that there are between 3,000-4,000 of these dogs left.
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Murdy is a perfect example of this breed. He’s a Terrier, meaning he’s high-energy, kind, and smart. He can be a brat when he wants to be, but he also makes an excellent companion. Plus, he has a pretty cool haircut:
Look at him, playing. Blissfully unaware that his breed could be extinct in just 25 years. I’m glad he gets to have the best life ever!
Why Skye Terriers Are Facing Extinction
Unfortunately, this is just how things shake out sometimes. There’s one main reason Skye Terriers are facing extinction: they’re just not popular. Most people have never heard of them. Save for dog shows, it’s hard to find one of these pups!
Skye Terriers are not “conventionally” attractive dogs; their coat can be tough to care for, and as Terriers, they can be overwhelming to care for. Other, similar Terrier breeds are more popular, like the Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier. Skye Terriers simply aren’t in demand, so there aren’t as many breeders.
If you’re interested in keeping this adorable, vulnerable breed alive, you can find ethical breeders in your area to procure a puppy. Because they’re so rare, they may even want to work with you to breed future puppies! If not, though, you still have a really fun and sweet companion!
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This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Oct 12, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
