25 Rare Dog Breeds You’ve Never Heard Of
Are you a dog lover who can name even uncommon breeds without a second thought? Well, it’s time to test your skills! In these four TikToks, you’ll meet twenty-five dog breeds that are so rare that most people have never heard their names, much less seen one in real life.
Despite being virtually unknown, each breed on this list is either officially American Kennel Club recognized or part of the AKC’s miscellaneous class or Foundation Stock Service program. “The AKC provides this service to allow these purebred breeds to continue to develop while providing them with the security of a reliable and reputable avenue to maintain their records,” says the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service breed page. Though not yet officially AKC registered, these breeds are recognized by international kennel clubs and official breed registries.
@cashole_ #dogs #dogbreeds #akc #cooldogs #uniquedogs ♬ Sahara – Hensonn
Many of these breeds are rarely seen outside their countries of origin, but if you ever spot one ‘in the wild’ you’ll know you’re seeing a unicorn!
1. Azawakh
Quick Facts:
- Height: 23.5–29 inches
- Weight: 33–55 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Region of Origin: West Africa (Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger)
- AKC Recognized: Yes — Hound Group
The Azawakh is a West African sighthound characterized by incredible speed, durability, and stamina that make it the perfect hunting dog for the scorching hot and rugged Sahara. Historically owned by Tuareg nomads, the lineage of the Azawakh can be traced back more than 1,000 years. Although independent and self-motivated, the Azawakh is also a loving and affectionate family dog with unyielding loyalty.
2. Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
Quick Facts:
- Height: 17–20.5 inches
- Weight: 37–66 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Country of Origin: Germany
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
The Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound was bred in Germany during the 1870s to fulfill the need for a lightweight, agile scenthound with an exceptionally powerful nose. Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds are acutely tuned, and the breed is especially prized for its ability to “cold nose track,” or to follow a scent that is old or has gone “cold.” Brave, even-keeled, and confident, Bavarian Mountain Scent Hounds bond closely with their families but may be reserved with strangers.
3. Beauceron
Quick Facts:
- Height: 24–27.5 inches
- Weight: 70–110 pounds
- Lifespan: 10–12 years
- Country of Origin: France
- AKC Recognized: Yes — Herding Group
The highly intelligent and physically powerful Beauceron hails from France where it has been an all-purpose herding and working dog since the Middle Ages. The Beauceron excels as a herding dog and is known for being calm, quiet, and versatile with its flock, but can be equally protective and watchful. A large breed, the Beauceron is surprisingly gentle with children and members of its flock, but the breed is also strong-willed and may run the show if you lack experience.
4. Belgian Tervuren
Quick Facts:
- Height: 22–26 inches
- Weight: 45–75 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–14 years
- Country of Origin: Belgium
- AKC Recognized: Yes — Herding Group
No, those aren’t German Shepherds, they’re Belgian Tervuren! Historically used as all-purpose herding and guard dogs, the Belgian Tervuren is strong, focused, and has high stamina, making the breed a popular choice as modern search and rescue dogs and police and military canines. Loyal, watchful, and intelligent, this formidable breed also has a goofy streak and can be playful companions.
5. Czechoslovakian Vlcak
Quick Facts:
- Height: 23.5+ inches
- Weight: 44+ pounds
- Lifespan: 12–16 years
- Country of Origin: Czechia (Czech Republic)
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
The Czechoslovakian Vlcak—also called the Czechoslovakian Wolfdog or Czechoslovakian Vlciak—was developed in the 1950s by crossing German Shepherds with Carpathian Wolves. The dogs were bred to be durable, loyal, and intelligent with high stamina to act as border guard dogs. Slowly, more domestic dogs were added to this breed’s lineage, and today, the Vlcak has only very small amounts of detectable wolf DNA.
6. Estrela Mountain Dog
Quick Facts:
- Height: 24.5–29 inches
- Weight: 77–132 pounds
- Lifespan: 10–14 years
- Region of Origin: Serra da Estrela (a mountain range in Portugal)
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
Estrela Mountain Dogs developed over hundreds of years in the isolated Serra da Estrela mountains of Portugal where it was primarily owned and bred by shepherds and their families until the late 1950s. A livestock guardian breed, the Estrela Mountain Dog is loyal, watchful, brave, and affectionate with its family but wary of strangers. Calm and gentle with its family, the Estrela Mountain Dog is also fearless and protective.
@cashole_ #greenscreen #dogs #akc #akcbreeds #dogbreeds #animals #cooldogs #uniquedogs ♬ Run Boy Run – Woodkid
7. Gordon Setter
Quick Facts:
- Height: 23–27 inches
- Weight: 45–80 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–13 years
- Country of Origin: Scotland
- AKC Recognized: Yes — Sporting Group
The Gordon Setter is a bird-dog with a vivacious, confident, and social personality. Outgoing and affectionate, the Gordon Setter is as much a companion as a sporting dog but still requires plenty of physical and mental stimulation.
8. Kai Ken
Quick Facts:
- Height: 15.5–19.5 inches
- Weight: 25–40 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Country of Origin: Japan
- AKC Recognized: No — Miscellaneous Class
The Kai Ken is a Japanese hunting breed prized for its versatility and ability to traverse mountain terrain. Loyal medium-sized dogs who bond closely with their humans, the ancient Kai Ken is also revered as a fierce guardian. First successfully brought to the US in the 1990s, just ten dogs make up the genetic foundation of all US-born Kai Ken.
9. Lapponian Herder
Quick Facts:
- Height: 18–20 inches
- Weight: 70 pounds
- Lifespan: 10–14 years
- Country of Origin: Finland
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
Traditionally kept by Sámi people, Lapponian Herders were used as herding dogs for herds of reindeer. Smart, social, and affectionate, the Lapponian Herder is adaptable, versatile, and happiest when doing a job. A very vocal breed, Lapponian Herders may be eager to please but will also make their opinions known.
10. Mudi
Quick Facts:
- Height: 15–18.5 inches
- Weight: 18–29 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–14 years
- Country of Origin: Hungary
- AKC Recognized: Yes — Herding Group
The Mudi is an all-purpose farm dog with roots dating back to the ninth century. An active, loyal, intelligent dog, the Mudi has all the energy and bravery of a much larger breed, making it an excellent herder for even stubborn animals. Eager to please, Mudis excel as working dogs and in agility and other canine sports.
11. Presa Canario
Quick Facts:
- Height: 22-26 inches
- Weight: 84–110 pounds
- Lifespan: 9–11 years
- Region of Origin: Canary Islands
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
Once used to drive livestock and as household guardians, the Presa Canario was almost wiped out before being saved by conservation efforts in the 1970s. A large, confident but calm breed, the Presa Canario is deeply loyal to its family but wary of strangers.
12. Peruvian Inca Orchid
Quick Facts:
- Height: 9.75–15.75 in. (small), 15.75–19.75 in. (medium), 19.75–25.75 in. (large)
- Weight: 8.5–17.5 lbs. (small), 17.5–26.5 lbs. (medium), 26.5–55 lbs. (large)
- Lifespan: 12–14 years
- Country of Origin: Peru
- AKC Recognized: No — Miscellaneous Class
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is an ancient (primarily) hairless dog breed whose ancestors can be traced back to 750 AD. Some coated PIOs exist, but the majority are hairless. Once considered a good luck charm, the Peruvian Inca Orchid maintained relative isolation until the 1960s when exports of the breed slowly began. Affectionate, loyal, and protective of the family, the Peruvian Inca Orchid is very similar to sighthounds like Greyhounds and may be somewhat reserved with strangers. Interestingly, the breed comes in three standard sizes.
@cashole_ #greenscreen #dogs #dogbreeds #akc #akcbreeds #animals #cooldogs #uniquedogs #dogtok ♬ Sahara – Hensonn
13. Thai Ridgeback
Quick Facts:
- Height: 20–24 inches
- Weight: 35–75 pounds
- Lifespan: 14–15 years
- Country of Origin: Thailand
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
The Thai Ridgeback’s history can be traced back more than 300 years, and this formidable hunting dog has long been a staple of life in rural Thailand. Muscular, active, and durable, Thai Ridgebacks have strong guardian instincts and prey drive and require experienced dog ownership and early socialization. Loyal and loving to their families, Thai Ridgebacks are also highly intelligent and willful.
14. Tosa
Quick Facts:
- Height: 21.5–23.5 inches
- Weight: 100–200 pounds
- Lifespan: 10–12 years
- Country of Origin: Japan
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
The Tosa—or Tosa Inu—is a mastiff-type breed that was once used for dog fighting. Courageous and protective, the Tosa is a gentle family companion but may jump to attention at the first sign of a threat. Nervous about strangers, the Tosa prefers the tranquillity of solitude and is generally a calm, reserved breed when provided the proper environment.
15. Sloughi
Quick Facts:
- Height: 24–29 inches
- Weight: 40–65 pounds
- Lifespan: 10–15 years
- Region of Origin: North Africa (Morocco, Algeria, Libya, and Tunisia)
- AKC Recognized: Yes — Hound Group
The Sloughi is a sighthound with a gentle, reserved personality. Often aloof with strangers, the Sloughi is affectionate with its family but has an independent streak and may be described as cat-like. Nearly as fast as the Greyhound, Sloughis can reach speeds of 30–40 miles per hour. Don’t worry, these dogs aren’t too thin—even at a healthy weight, the skeletal frame of the Sloughi should be visible.
16. Segugio Italiano
Quick Facts:
- Height: 19–24.5 inches
- Weight: 39–62 pounds
- Lifespan: 11–13 years
- Country of Origin: Italy
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
Despite hailing from Italy, the Segugio Italiano are scent hounds that descend from ancient Egyptian hounds imported to the region. Friendly and eager to work, the Segugio Italiano also has incredible intelligence and makes a wonderful companion for hunters and non-hunters alike. The breed has two coat types: short and wire-hair.
17. Scottish Deerhound
Quick Facts:
- Height: 28–32 inches
- Weight: 75–110 pounds
- Lifespan: 8–11
- Country of Origin: Scotland
- AKC Recognized: Yes — Hound Group
A true gentle giant, the Scottish Deerhound is a polite but formidable breed created to hunt red deer, hence the name. A noble, reserved dog, the Scottish Deerhound is content to enjoy a day of hiking or exercise or to lounge on the couch.
18. Pyrenean Mastiff
Quick Facts:
- Height: 28–31 inches
- Weight: 120–190 pounds
- Lifespan: 10–12 years
- Region of Origin: Pyrenees Mountains (Spain)
- AKC Recognized: No — Miscellaneous Class
Gentle but brave and protective of the family, the Pyrenean Mastiff is a typical livestock guardian breed with an independent personality. Possessing very little prey drive, the Pyrenean Mastiff becomes a protector to all and is fiercely loyal to its family requiring an experienced dog owner.
19. Xoloitzcuintli
Quick Facts:
- Height:
- Weight:
- Lifespan:
- Country of Origin: Mexico
- AKC Recognized: Yes — Non-Sporting Group
The hairless Xoloitzcuintli is a Mexican dog breed dating back to the Aztec Empire. Calm yet alert and deeply loyal, the Xolo is a wonderful companion breed with the instincts of a watchdog. Whether you want a small, medium, or large dog, the Xolo has an option for you with three standard sizes.
@cashole_ #greenscreen #dogs #dogbreeds #akc #akcbreeds #animals #cooldogs #uniquedogs #dogtok ♬ Run Boy Run – Woodkid
20. Yakutian Laika
Quick Facts:
- Height: 21–23 inches
- Weight: 40–55 pounds
- Lifespan: 10-12 years
- Country of Origin: Russia
- AKC Recognized: No — Miscellaneous Class
From the freezing Siberian region of Yakutia, the Yakutian Laika is a herding breed and sled dog prized for its loyalty, durability, and drive to work. A playful and affectionate breed, Yakutian Laikas make excellent companions for active owners.
21. Working Kelpie
Quick Facts:
- Height: 19–25 inches
- Weight: 28–60 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–15 years
- Country of Origin: Australia
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
Extremely intelligent, high-energy, and eager to please, the Working Kelpie is a superstar herding breed that can manage virtually any variety of livestock. Strong, agile, and durable, Working Kelpies are also a popular choice as search and rescue dogs, military canines, and sled dogs!
22. Tornjak
Quick Facts:
- Height: 25–28 inches
- Weight: 60–110 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–14 years
- Region of Origin: Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
The Tornjak is an ancient herding breed with a friendly, social personality. Intelligent and courageous, Tourjak dogs fiercely protect their homes and families but are gentle, affectionate companions to humans they trust.
23. Stabyhoun
Quick Facts:
- Height: 19–21 inches
- Weight: 40–60 pounds
- Lifespan: 13–15 years
- Country of Origin: Netherlands
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
The Stabyhoun is a bird-dog native to the Netherlands with a smart, eager-to-please, but independent personality. Gentle and curious, the Stabyhoun is a wonderful companion but can be a bit of a troublemaker when left to its own devices.
24. Spanish Mastiff
Quick Facts:
- Height: 28–35 inches
- Weight: 140–200 pounds
- Lifespan: 10–12 years
- Country of Origin: Spain
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
The Spanish Mastiff is an enormous, ancient breed that can weigh as much as 200 pounds. Used primarily as a livestock guardian dog, the Spanish Mastiff is a gentle giant that bonds closely with its flock and human family and can be remarkably affectionate. In the face of a threat, this breed is unflinching and brave, a fearsome opponent.
25. Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog
Sources: @Danii_Ray_Kritz and @Collis_Amores_Mioritic
Quick Facts:
- Height: 22.5–29 inches
- Weight: 100–130 pounds
- Lifespan: 12–14 years
- Country of Origin: Romania
- AKC Recognized: No — Foundation Stock Service
The Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog is a giant livestock guardian breed from the Carpathian Mountains of Romania. Independent, confident, and fiercely protective, the Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog adores its family but is very distrustful of strangers. Happiest outdoors, Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dogs are so dedicated to their guardian lifestyle that even puppies prefer hard surfaces over soft beds.
