With over 63 million households in the U.S. including a dog as part of the family, America’s most popular pet has certainly earned its title as man’s best friend.
The much-loved domestic dog is found in an array of shapes and sizes, from mixed breeds to hybrids and purebred pups—while this woman even created her own dog breed in pursuit of the perfect pet.
But while some breeds are seriously sought-after, others are teetering on the brink of obscurity in America. Every year, the American Kennel Club (AKC) sheds light on the canine tapestry by unveiling its numbered list of recognized dog breeds by popularity from its 199 registered breeds.
The most recent data from 2022 revealed America’s 10 rarest dog breeds, some of which you may never have heard of at all.
At the other end of the spectrum, the AKC’s most recent statistics on popular dog breeds in 2022 lists the French bulldog as America’s top breed, closely followed by the Labrador retriever and golden retriever.
The year 2021 was the first time since 1991 that the Labrador hadn’t taken the top spot for popular breeds, finally being beaten by the French bulldog.
But why are some breeds more popular than others? Brandi H. Munden, vice president of the AKC, told Newsweek: “That’s a great question and there is no one answer. Some breeds used to be very popular and now they are not due to breeding patterns. For other breeds it can be about lifestyle and what it takes to own them.
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“Each of the breeds we recognize is wonderful in their own ways, however they may not be the perfect fit for your family. We encourage people to learn about a variety of breeds before making a decision on your new pet.”
10. Pyrenean Shepherd
Originating in the mountainous regions of France, the Pyrenean shepherd is a small herding breed known for agility and keen intellect.
Despite being known for their affection and family-friendly nature, they are listed as the 10th rarest breed in the U.S. by the AKC.
9. Cesky Terrier
From the Czech Republic, the Cesky terrier is a rare breed with a silky coat and calm demeanor.
Short-legged and standing at only around 13 inches at the shoulder, there are only around 600 living in the U.S., making them one of the rarest breeds.
8. Sussex Spaniel
It’s joked that they look a little like a cross between a cocker spaniel and a torpedo, but you may have never set eyes on the elusive Sussex spaniel.
Originating as the name suggests in the English county of Sussex, their wavy coat and big hazel eyes present a somber expression, completely at odds with their cheerful and friendly nature.
7. Harrier
A medium-sized hound, the Harrier looks a bit like a beagle with a gym membership. Closely related to another dog on this list, the English foxhound, they were first bred in medieval England to chase hare.
Good with children, other dogs and affectionate with family, they were first recognized by the AKC in 1885 but their popularity is still low in the U.S.
6. Azawakh
From ancient West African origins, the Azawakh was only officially recognized by the AKC in 2019.
Pronounced Az-a-walk, the lean muscly dogs have short fawn-color coats and are slowly finding more popularity in the U.S. as companion pets.
The graphic above, provided by Statista, shows popular dog breeds in the U.S.
5. Belgian Laekenois
Closely related Belgian herders the Belgian Laekenois—pronounced Lak-in-wah—is one of just four native dogs from Belgium.
Recognized officially by the AKC in 2020, the American Belgian Laekenois Association was founded in 1995 and lists just 163 members.
4. American Foxhound
Despite an association with the American founding fathers, American foxhounds find themselves at the lower end of the popularity spectrum.
Known for hunting and athleticism, they require lots of attention and exercise which could contribute to their sparse numbers in modern homes.
3. Sloughi
With a history spanning centuries, the Sloughi originates from North Africa and are known for their grace and loyalty.
But the breed didn’t arrive in the U.S. until 1973 and despite being recognized by the AKC in 2016, they are still very rare with only a handful of breeders in the U.S.
2. Norwegian Lundehund
Unsurprisingly hailing from Norway, the Norwegian Lundehunds are renowned for their unique anatomical features, including extra toes and incredible flexibility.
1. English Foxhound
The rarest breed on the list, the versatile and sociable English foxhound is a cousin of the American foxhound. Officially recognized in 1909, they’re known for being friendly, sociable and good with children.
The breed’s scarcity is often attributed to its unfamiliarity to the general public in the U.S., and preference for the American Foxhound.
Of course, a breed’s popularity has nothing to do with their suitability as pets. Munden explained that the right dog breed depends on the person as much as it does the dog. “Many dog owners look for size, predictability, temperament, exercise levels and breeds that are good with children,” she said.
“That is why you see such an affinity for breeds like Labs and goldens. In general, certain breeds are part of the cultural zeitgeist and people gravitate to them.”
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
