Rare Dog Breeds You May Not Know About

These dogs stand out from the pack. And they're underrated.

50 Rarest Dog Breeds in the World

Like their human counterparts, dogs can be vastly different in their habits, appreciations, moods and personalities. But some stand out more from the pack.

In fact, some of the most compelling dogs come from rare breeds known for their award-winning characteristics. What are these rare breeds, though, and what makes them so unique?

These are the 50 best rare dog breeds for those hoping to avoid adding yet another golden retriever to their clan.

50. Telomian

A rare dog breed from Malaysia, the Telomian is small to medium in size, stocky and athletic. They're noted for their unique bluish tongue, wideset eyes and eagerness to learn. They're very bright and alert, making them excellent watchdogs. They also are adept at climbing since their ancestors lived in homes that were only accessible by ladder.

Being one of the more recently domesticated dog breeds, the Telomian has strong prey instincts and shouldn't be kept in homes with small pets. They're naturally suspicious of strangers as well. If that's not a deal-breaker and you're looking for a stellar watchdog, a Telomian might be a good fit.

* All breed information is sourced from the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Telomian Overview

Temperament: Hardworking, hyper, protective

Height: 15-19 inches

Weight: 18-28 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-14 years

49. Catalburun

Turkish hunting dog called double nose Catalburun

The Catalburun comes from the southmost Tarsus province in Turkey, and they're exceptionally rare. Only about 200 of them are believed to exist today, and the reason why is sad.

The Catalburun is so unique because of its unusual double nose and low-set ears, but both traits are the result of severe inbreeding. It's virtually impossible to continue breeding Catalburun dogs without mixing in other similar breeds to build a healthier genetic makeup in future litters.

Despite the unusual appearance and potential health issues, the Catalburun is bright, loving and excellent at tracking animals. They make a good family pet if you manage to find one.

Catalburun Overview

Temperament: Even-tempered, eager to please, excellent trackers

Height: 17-24 inches

Weight: 30-55 pounds

Life expectancy: 12 years

48. New Guinea Singing Dog

New Guinea singing dogs are one of the few dogs on this list that we suggest avoiding.

New Guinea singing dogs originated from wild dogs, and while they can be domesticated, most puppies available are just a few generations away from their wild roots. While they bond with humans and are highly intelligent, they're willful and independent.

It takes an experienced handler to raise a New Guinea singing dog, and they should never be kept in homes with other pets. They also can be reactive with other dogs, particularly ones of the same sex.

New Guinea Singing Dog Overview

Temperament: Introverted, independent, avid hunters

Height: 17 inches

Weight: 25 pounds

Life expectancy: 15-20 years

47. Teddy Roosevelt Terrier

The Teddy Roosevelt terrier is known for being a one-person kind of dog. While he gets along quite well with other pets and kids, he tends to choose one member of the family to follow like a hawk.

Teddy Roosevelt terriers are highly intelligent and easy to train, and if you have a mouse or rat problem, you won't after you bring home a Teddy.

Teddys are also great at agility and obedience training, and thrive when given tasks that keep them athletically and mentally challenged.

Teddy Roosevelt Terrier Overview

Temperament: Agile, spirited, feisty

Height: 11.5 inches

Weight: 17.5 pounds

Life expectancy: 15-16 years

46. Vallhund

Vallhund is the Swedish word for shepherd dog. The ever-watchful vallhund is a herding dog at heart, despite having unusually short legs. Vallhunds are also nicknamed "the big dog with short legs" for this very reason.

One would think that the vallhund's little legs would slow him down, but that's not even remotely close to the truth. Vallhunds love to work and thrive with daily challenges. When given lots of time outside to run, play fetch and explore, vallhunds can be adaptable, friendly family pets.

Vallhund Overview

Temperament: Alert, intelligent, dependable

Height: 11.5 - 13.5 inches

Weight: 22-35 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

45. Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka

In the 1700s, Louis XIV of France gave the ancestors of the bolonka to Russian nobles. They were developed by crossbreeding other small companion dogs, like the Pekinese and bichon frise, with Russian strays. Initially, all Bolonkas were solid black to hide dirt, but the breed's thick, double coat now comes in every color besides white.

Bolonkas are sweet, but spirited. They love to play with children, and their whimsical, charming personalities win over guests in a heartbeat.

Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka Overview

Temperament: Charming, curious, spirited

Height: 7-11 inches

Weight: 5-11 pounds

Life expectancy: 16 years

44. Russian Toy

A small, lively dog, the Russian toy has long, graceful legs and a delicate bone structure. Their fur is fairly short, except on their ears, which frame their face with long, soft tufts of fur. They can be aloof with strangers, but they're active and affectionate with their favorite companions.

They love to play, so they're a great choice for households with children. If you don't have kids and hate running, don't get a Russian toy. The breed also grows very attached to their favorite family members, so be prepared for them to complain if they don't get to lounge on your lap.

Russian Toy Overview

Russian toy terrier, rare small dog breed

Temperament: Lively, intelligent, cheerful

Height: 8-11 inches

Weight: 3-6.5 pounds

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

43. Pumi

The scraggly Pumi looks like a goofball, but they're actually herding dogs. They came from Western Hungary, where they were long responsible for driving sheep to and from local grazing pastures.

They look a little like stuffed animals, only much more willing to roll in the mud and much more interested in chasing livestock. If you put the time in, however, they're quick to learn and eager to please.

Pumi Overview

Temperament: Active, intelligent, reserved

Height: 15-18.5 inches

Weight: 22-32 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-13 years

42. Lowchen

The long-haired Lowchen is cheerful, snuggly and obsessed with laying on laps. The lowchen, which means "little lion dog," adores to be around people. Anyone working long hours away from home shouldn't consider getting a lowchen, because they need tons of love and attention.

Lowchens can often be found perched atop the back of an armchair or sofa, keeping watch out the window. They tend to be yappy, but they're also very sensitive. Lowchen owners must master the art of gentle, responsive, consistent obedience training to keep their furry friend's barking in check without hurting their feelings.

Lowchen Overview

Temperament: Playful, happy, bright

Height: 12-14 inches

Weight: 9-18 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

41. Kromfohrlander

The kromfohrlander, a medium-sized companion dog, always looks happy. That's thanks to the breed's distinctive "smile" and perky ears. Some kromfohrlanders get so excited to see their owners that they burst into a fit of sneezing.

The agile breed excels at agility and obedience training and can easily learn impressive tricks. They're sometimes picky eaters, but aside from that, they make excellent pets. They are very loyal to their owners and live well into their teens, so your child's first kromfohrlander puppy could easily see them off to college.

Kromfohrlander Overview

Temperament: Good-natured, friendly, adaptable

Height: 15-18 inches

Weight: 20-35 pounds

Life expectancy: 10-15 years

40. Jagdterrier

German jagdterrier hunting dog on a leash

The jagdterrier, also called the Deutscher jagdterrier, looks a little like a terrier version of the Doberman. A German hunting dog, the jagdterrier is energetic, courageous and highly driven.

Since they were bred to hunt, not for companionship, the jagdterrier is happiest when given a purpose. This doesn't have to be hunting, of course. Any intense physical activity that engages their brain and expends some of their copious amounts of energy will do the trick.

Jagdterrier Overview

Close up of jagdterrier dog on agility course

Temperament: Intelligent, strong-willed, outgoing

Height: 13-16 inches

Weight: 17-22 pounds

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

39. Dutch Smoushond

Cute white Dutch smoushond dog sitting on the ground outside

The Dutch smoushond is almost unheard of outside of Holland. During the 1940s, the breed nearly vanished altogether. Fortunately, this Schnauzer-like breed is still alive and kicking.

Smoushonds form close bonds with their families. They're naturally curious and tend to get themselves into trouble if left unsupervised, but their antics are always amusing.

Barking can be an issue, but the habit can be reduced with early, consistent training. They can be taught to be excellent watchdogs, but they're too friendly and outgoing to be used for protection.

Dutch Smoushond Overview

Temperament: Loyal, affectionate, active

Height: 14-16.5 inches

Weight: 20-22 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

38. Danish-Swedish Farmdog

The Danish-Swedish farmdog is pretty small in size, but he's huge in personality. Descended from working farmdogs but bred to be a companion animal, the so-called "Little Big Dog" offers the best of both worlds.

Eager and motivated to work, the compact Danish-Swedish farmdog is well-suited for agility training, herding, tracking and hunting, but they're also thrilled just to play fetch with their favorite human at the dog park.

Danish-Swedish Farmdog Overview

Temperament: Agile, alert, lively

Height: 12-15 inches

Weight: 15-20 pounds

Life expectancy: 10-15 years

37. Biewer Terrier

Tiny yet elegant, the Biewer terrier has lush, long fur and a unique, tri-colored coat. It resembles a light-colored Yorkshire terrier, and the breed share a few similar personality traits. They're both cheerful and affectionate, but the Biewer terrier is much more athletic and loves to hunt mice.

Most Biewers love to play, and they can often be seen carrying toys around the house well into their later years.

Fun fact: Biewer is pronounced "beaver," just like the damn-building woodland creature.

Biewer Terrier Overview

Wonderful Biewer terrier running with tongue out and smile on his face

Temperament: Energetic, loyal, clever

Height: 7-11 inches

Weight: 4-8 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

36. Bolognese

The Bolognese is a cousin of the Havanese and the bichon frise, but with so much more fluff to love. They're quite a rare dog breed, so puppies can cost thousands. That said, their high price tag comes with an amazing personality.

They're extremely intelligent and adept at solving problems. More importantly, they're closely attuned with their owner's body language. If you're sad, the Bolognese will magically appear to offer a kiss and plentiful snuggles.

The only downsides? The Bolognese requires hours of weekly grooming, and they're miserable if left home alone for hours on end. If you have the time for a cute and cuddly furball to sit by your side all day, the Bolognese is a superb choice.

Bolognese Overview

Temperament: Loyal, devoted, attentive

Height: 9-12.5 inches

Weight: 8-14 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-14 years

35. Basenji

Basenjis are unique dogs considering they don't bark. However, they can make a lot of noise, including yodels, whines and screams. These compact, hunter dogs from Africa are known for their intelligence and poise.

They do have a lot of energy, so humans should be prepared for daily exercise. Basenjis are typically reserved with people they don't know and are generally independent.

Basenji Overview

Temperament: Independent, smart, poised

Height: 17 inches (male), 16 inches (female)

Weight: 24 pounds (male), 22 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 13-14 years

34. Carolina Dog

Carolina dogs are known for hunting by sight and speed (sighthounds) rather than by scent and endurance. They are usually shy and suspicious initially, but they are eager to please when they fully welcome a human into their lives.

According to the AKC, Carolina dogs look a bit like wolves and have gone by many names over the years, including North American native dogs, American dingoes and Dixie dingoes.

Carolina Dog Overview

Temperament: Loyal, independent, reserved

Height: 17.75-19.5 inches

Weight: 30-55 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

33. Karelian Bear Dog

Karelian bear dogs are genuinely self-reliant but will work with others when hunting. The Karelian bear dog has an incredible sense of smell that makes them great big-game hunters. They can be reserved around humans but aren't aggressive.

Despite being excellent hunters, Karelian bear dogs don't need a tremendous amount of activity daily. According to the AKC, they enjoy indoor and outdoor exercise, including walks, playtime, hide-and-seek games and learning new tricks.

Karelian Bear Dog Overview

Temperament: Loyal, independent, courageous

Height: 19-23.5 inches

Weight: 44-49 pounds

Life expectancy: 11-13 years

32. Stabyhoun

Stabyhouns are known for being smart and loving dogs. They were bred by farmers to hunt moles and rabbits, so don't be surprised if yours starts digging up your garden.

Since stabyhouns are obedient and gentle, they are easy to train, as they are eager to please. This breed wants their humans to love them, so they also make excellent family pets.

Stabyhoun Overview

Temperament: Intelligent, responsive, loving

Height: 19-21 inches

Weight: 40-60 pounds

Life expectancy: 13-15 years

31. Mudi

Mudi is pronounced "moodie," according to the AKC. They are small, smart Hungarian farm dogs that are known for being courageous, even with the most challenging livestock. Mudis love their humans and are therefore loyal protectors of property and family members.

While they are devoted to their people, mudis aren't typically friendly around strangers. But their eagerness to please makes them a joy to train.

Mudi Overview

Temperament: Loyal, intelligent, active

Height: 15-18.5 inches

Weight: 18-29 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-14 years

30. Azawakh

Azawakhs are sighthounds from West Africa. They are tall, leggy and have short, fine coats that form a very elegant-looking dog. "This is a tough, durable hunter that's been chasing gazelle across the scorching sands of the Sahara for more than a thousand years," the AKC notes.

Azawakhs are fiercely loyal to their humans and fairly outgoing with strangers. Training should be started right away, though, as these dogs are smart and independent.

Azawakh Overview

Temperament: Loyal, independent, deeply affectionate

Height: 25-29 inches (male), 23.5-27.5 inches (female)

Weight: 44-55 pounds (male), 33-44 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

29. Thai Ridgeback

Thai ridgebacks are medium-sized, muscular dogs named after the patch of hair on their back that grows in the opposite direction. Ridgebacks were bred for hunting and guarding and are therefore independent and self-sufficient.

They have a high level of intelligence and are naturally protective of their homes. While ridgebacks can be loving dogs, they need experienced dog owners to ensure the proper training occurs. First-time dog owners would not do well with a ridgeback.

Thai Ridgeback Overview

Temperament: Loyal, independent, agile

Height: 20-24 inches

Weight: 35-75 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-13 years

28. Peruvian Inca Orchid

The Peruvian Inca orchid comes from — you may have guessed — Peru. This sighthound has a unique look that includes hairless and coated dogs that come in a variety of sizes.

Even though Peruvian Inca orchids can be excellent hunters, they're more known as affectionate companion dogs. "Peruvian Inca Orchids require a great deal of socialization and should be kept in the house, as they do not make good outdoor dogs," the AKC says.

Note: Experts don't recommend these dogs for families with small children.

Peruvian Inca Orchid Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, noble

Height: 9.75-15.75 inches (small) 15.75-19.75 inches (medium) 19.75-25.75 inches (large)

Weight: 8.5-17.5 pounds (small) 17.5-26.5 pounds (medium) 26.5-55 pounds (large)

Life expectancy: 12-14 years

27. Catahoula Leopard Dog

The Catahoula leopard dog is a medium to large dog that can get up to 95 pounds and is muscular and powerful. The word Catahoula is of Choctaw origin and means "sacred lake," according to the AKC.

This breed is the only dog to originate from the state of Louisiana. Their loyal and watchful nature means Catahoulas can be territorial and protective, so their humans must start training and socialization right away. It is also worth noting that Catahoulas need a lot of activity daily.

Catahoula Leopard Dog Overview

Temperament: Loyal, independent, watchful

Height: 22-24 inches

Weight: 50-95 pounds

Life expectancy: 10-14 years

26. Bedlington Terrier

This rare dog has a unique look with exciting features, including an arched back, tasseled ears and a crisp, curly coat. Bedlington terriers are named after the mining shire in England, where they were first raised. "Bedlingtons were a workingman's dog expected to be versatile enough to be employed as coalmine ratters, varmint killers and pit fighters," according to the AKC.

Nowadays, they're much more famous for their charming and lively natures. Bedlingtons love their families and being the center of attention.

Bedlington Terrier Overview

Temperament: Loyal, charming, frolicking

Height: 15-17.5 inches

Weight: 17-23 pounds

Life expectancy: 11-16 years

25. Tibetan Mastiff

Tibetan mastiffs are gentle giants that you can spot a mile away. While they are reserved and independent, Tibetan mastiffs are also calm and sweet at home. They love their families profoundly and are territorial around strangers.

Mastiffs can reach 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh well over 100 pounds. But despite their large size, these dogs can be light on the feet and agile when guarding their humans against a threat.

Tibetan Mastiff Overview

Temperament: Independent, reserved, intelligent

Height: Minimum 26 inches (male), minimum of 24 inches (female)

Weight: Minimum of 26 inches (male), minimum of 24 inches (female)

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

24. Finnish Lapphund

This little pup is a reindeer herder from north of the Arctic Circle. The Finnish Lapphund, affectionately referred to as the Lappie, is considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. These Nordic dogs thrive in a family and hate being lonely.

Their desire to please makes them easy to train, and their weariness of strangers makes them great guardians. Lappies are relatively calm dogs but do require a moderate amount of exercise like a daily walk.

Finnish Lapphund Overview

Temperament: Friendly, alert, agile

Height: 18-21 inches (male), 16-19 inches (female)

Weight: 33-53 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

23. Glen of Imaal Terrier

The Glen of Imaal terrier is named after a remote area in Wicklow, Ireland. These bold terriers, known as Glens, were bred as farm dogs to guard livestock and hunt badgers and otters.

This breed was first recognized by the Irish Kennel Club in 1934, the Kennel Club of England in 1975 and became well known in North America in the 1980s.

These little pups have been in dog shows since 1878, according to AKC. Glens are known for being animated, hearty and gentle.

Glen of Imaal Terrier Overview

Temperament: Gentle, spirited, bold

Height: 12.5-14 inches

Weight: 32-40 pounds

Life expectancy: 10-15 years

22. Norwegian Buhund

Norwegian buhunds are spitz, which are cold-weather breeds with dense coats, a curved tail and upright, pointed ears. Spitz means "pointed" in German. These breeds can be small like Pomeranians and massive like Malamutes, but buhunds are right in the middle.

They're known for being excellent at herding and guarding and even sailed with the Vikings some 1,200 years ago, according to the AKC. The breed is known for being wise and affectionate, making them a delightful addition to families.

Norwegian Buhund Overview

Temperament: Confident, smart, perceptive

Height: 17-18.5 inches (male), 16-17.5 inches (female)

Weight: 31-40 pounds (male), 26-35 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

21. Scottish Deerhound

The Royal Dog of Scotland is a distinguished pup known for its majestically large stature and polite nature. As you may have guessed by its name, these dogs were bred to hunt deers, specifically the 400-pound wild red deer. At one point, folks with ranks lower than an earl weren't permitted to have this breed, according to AKC.

Experts agree that deerhounds thrive when given exercise and gentle training. They require a decent amount of space to roam, so apartments are out of the question.

Scottish Deerhound Overview

Temperament: Gentle, dignified, polite

Height: 30-32 inches (male), 28 inches & up (female)

Weight: 85-110 pounds (male), 75-95 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 8-11 years

20. Curly-Coated Retriever

Curly-coated retrievers are among the oldest retriever breeds and come from two now extinct dogs, the English water spaniel and the retrieving setter. Curlys are gun dogs, which are breeds that help hunters find and retrieve game.

"By the late 19th century, the Curly had taken his place as a cherished companion of British sportsmen. In this period, the Curly was exported as far afield as Australia and New Zealand, where it remains popular among hunters as an all-purpose retriever admired for a steady disposition and tender mouth," the AKC says.

They're knowledgeable and proud, but also playful and affectionate.

Curly-Coated Retriever Overview

Temperament: Confident, proud, wickedly smart

Height: 25-27 inches (male), 23-25 inches (female)

Weight: 60-95 pounds

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

19. Cirneco dell'Etna

The cirneco dell'Etna is Sicily's famous sighthound. They resemble their cousin from Malta, the pharaoh hound.

These athletic hunters are incredibly fast and typically chase rabbits, hare and game birds. Cirneco coats range from light to chestnut, and they're famous for their sleek physique and upright ears.

When the breed's popularity dipped, Sicilian aristocrat Baroness Agata Paternó Castello spent 26 years reviving it, according to the AKC.

Cirneco dell'Etna Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, friendly, independent

Height: 18-19.5 inches (male), 16.5-18 inches (female)

Weight: 22-26 pounds (male), 17-22 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 12-14 years

18. Spinone Italiano

Despite being a great hunter, the spinone Italiano is also friendly and docile. According to the AKC, this breed has a great nose that helps them hunt on land or lake. A rare dog breed, it hails from the Italian Alps, where their all-weather stamina was useful for huntsmen.

Spinone Italianos are named after pino, which is the thorny undergrowth found in the Piedmont region of Italy. This sporting group dog is also known for its soft, almost-human facial expression.

Spinoni Italiano Overview

Temperament: Sociable, patient, docile

Height: 23-27 inches (male), 22-25 inches (female)

Weight: 75-86 pounds (male), 64-75 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

17. Sloughi

The Sloughi, aka the Arabian Greyhound, calls the North African deserts home and is a sighthound. "Sloughi-type hounds were favored hunting companions of Egyptian nobles, Berber kings and nomadic chieftains who kept packs of tough but graceful hounds that could course game across vast expanses of desert," the AKC reports.

These rare dogs are known for being standoffish with strangers, but gentle and graceful around those they love. Sloughis are lean, tall and reserved. They like to exercise but refuse a forceful training style.

Sloughi Overview

Temperament: Reserved, graceful, noble

Height: 26-29 inches (male), 24-27 inches (female)

Weight: 45 - 70 pounds

Life expectancy: 12 -14 years

16. Lagotto Romagnolo

The lagotto Romagnolo is an adorable Italian pup with a curly coat that makes them look a bit like a teddy bear. They are famous for finding truffles with their intense sense of smell.

Lagotti Romagnolo are excellent workers and have an undemanding nature. They love to please their humans and are quite affectionate pups.

Lagotto Romagnolo Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, keen, undemanding

Height: 17-19 inches (male), 16-18 inches (female)

Weight: 28.5-35 pounds (male), 24-31 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 15-17 years

15. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont terrier doesn't grow to be taller than 11 inches, but these small pups have huge, prideful personalities. These terriers were known for being able to hunt badgers and otters. King Louis Philippe had several Dandies as part of his royal entourage.

"England's Dandie Dinmont Terrier Club, established in1875, is still in operation today as one of the world's oldest breed clubs," the AKC says. (The AKC first recognized them in 1886.)

Dandie Dinmont Terrier Overview

Temperament: Independent, smart, proud

Height: 8-11 inches

Weight: 18-24 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

14. Bergamasco Sheepdog

The Bergamasco sheepdog has such a unique look that you couldn't miss them in a crowd. Three kinds of texture make up this unique breed's coat that looks like dreadlocks and covers their entire body, including their eyes.

These smart, sweet dogs are stubborn, though, when it comes to their work. "They take to watching over loved ones with a serene vigilance," the AKC says.

Bergamasco Sheepdog Overview

Temperament: Independent, sociable, intelligent

Height: 23.5 inches (male), 22 inches (female)

Weight: 70-84 pounds (male), 57-71 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 13-15 years

13. Skye Terrier

The most famous Skye terrier was Greyfriars Bobby, who became famous in 19th-century Edinburgh, Scotland, after guarding his human's grave for allegedly 14 years.

Needless to say, Skye terriers are known for being courageous and strong-willed. With the right training, they are also great companion dogs. Despite hailing from Scotland's remote Isle of Skye, this rare breed became popular with aristocrats.

Skye Terrier Overview

Temperament: Courageous, good-tempered, canny

Height: 10 inches (male), 9.5 inches (female)

Weight: 35-45 pounds (male), slightly lighter (female)

Life expectancy: 12-14 years

12. Pyrenean Shepherd

This joyful and friendly shepherd comes from the ancient sheepdogs of the Pyrenees mountain range, which separates the Iberian Peninsula from the rest of Europe. Due to their extreme intelligence, Pyrenean shepherds are also known to be a bit naughty.

They have two paramount looks: rough-faced and smooth-faced. The rough-faced of the breed have a windswept look with longer hair. The smooth-faced pups in the breed have short facial hair and a coat with a finer texture.

Pyrenean Shepherd Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, active, enthusiastic

Height: 15.5-18.5 inches (male rough-faced), 15-18 inches (female rough-faced), 15.5-21 inches (male smooth-faced), 15.5-20.5 inches (female smooth-faced)

Weight: 15-30 pounds

Life expectancy: 15-17 years

11. American Foxhound

The American foxhound looks like a beagle's big brother. These easy-going pups are known for their sweetness. But they are also incredible hunters with record speed and work ethic. They're closely associated with the American Revolution and the state of Virginia.

American foxhounds have large, expressive eyes that you better listen to because they become destructive without enough attention and exercise. Even though their loud weeping often sounds like they're singing, this rare breed isn't for a first-time dog owner.

American Foxhound Overview

Temperament: Independent, easy-going, sweet-tempered

Height: 22-25 inches (male), 21-24 inches (female)

Weight: 65-70 pounds (male), 60-65 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 11-13 years

10. Coton de Tulear

The coton de Tulear looks like a happy cotton ball. The rare breed is known for its cheerful and charming nature. Cotons were named for the city of Tuléar in Madagascar and were beloved by the nobles of the island. Aristocrats adored these lighthearted pups so much that they prevented others from owning them for centuries.

Their popularity skyrocketed in the 1960s when French tourists discovered the breed, according to the AKC.

Coton de Tulear Overview

Temperament: Charming, bright, happy-go-lucky

Height: 10-11 inches (male), 9-10 inches (female)

Weight: 9-15 pounds (male), 8-13 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 15-19 years

9. Chinook

The chinook is an American breed from Wonalancet, New Hampshire, and they happen to be the state’s official dog. They were bred as sleddings dogs and are famous for their astute and caring nature.

In 1965, Guinness World Records listed the chinook as the rarest dog breed and still remain quite rare, even coming close to extinction at one point.

Chinook Overview

Temperament: Smart, patient, devoted

Height: 24-26 inches (male), 22-24 inches (female)

Weight: 55-90 pounds (male), 50-65 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

8. Otterhound

Otterhounds are known for their friendly and rowdy nature. Despite being large pups, otterhounds have powerful shoulders that allow them to swim all day. Their waterproof coats only add to their swimming ability.

They were bred in medieval England to hunt, you guessed it, otters. In fact, otterhounds were so successful they pushed river otters to extinction, which prompted the outlawing of otter hunting.

Otterhound Overview

Temperament: Even-tempered, amiable, boisterous

Height: 27 inches (male), 24 inches (female)

Weight: 115 pounds (male), 80 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 10-13 years

7. Norwegian Lundehund

We have the wild, remote island of Vaeroy to thank for the Norwegian lundehund. Residents of the island used these rare dogs for hunting down puffins.

Nowadays, the agile spitz breed is known for being friendly and athletic. Norwegian lundehunds need daily exercise, so humans should consider that before bringing this energetic breed home.

Norwegian Lundehund Overview

Temperament: Loyal, energetic, alert

Height: 13-15 inches (male), 12-14 inches (female)

Weight: 20-30 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

6. Harrier

The harrier looks like the middle child between the smaller beagle and the larger English foxhound. These people-oriented pups were bred in England to find hare. They are eager to please and outgoing, but training will help ensure they have good manners.

Since these special dogs were created to spend hours in fields daily, humans should know Harriers require a significant amount of physical activity daily. They love long walks and hikes.

Harrier Overview

Temperament: Friendly, outgoing, people-oriented

Height: 19-21 inches

Weight: 45-60 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

5. Cesky Terrier

The Cesky terrier is a tiny hunter that stands no more than 13 inches. They come in various shades of gray and are a bit calmer than the average terrier. The Cesky's breeding history dates back to the 14th century, but they were not imported to the United States until the late 1980s, according to the AKC.

The Cesky is the national dog of the Czech Republic and known for being a great family dog.

Cesky Terrier Overview

Temperament: Clever, adventurous, family-oriented

Height: 10-13 inches

Weight: 14-24 pounds

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

4. Canaan Dog

The Canaan dog's pattern is a bit reminiscent of the Dalmatian, but this herding dog's alert ears give it a look all its own.

The Canaan dog is Israel's national dog and known for being innovative, dedicated and territorial. They like a lot of activity and pair best with hikers and runners.

Canaan Dog Overview

Temperament: Confident, alert, vigilant

Height: 20-24 inches (male), 19-23 inches (female)

Weight: 45-55 pounds (male), 35-45 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 12-15 years

3. Beauceron

The Beauceron is a big, naturally protective dog that is known for its faithful nature. The French shepherd dog also goes by the names Berger de Beauce or the Bas Rouge and is named after the agricultural region southwest of Paris.

Beaucerons are cheerful and smart, which makes them a breeze to train. The AKC describes them as having "a Border Collie's brain in a 100-pound body."

Beauceron Overview

Temperament: Gentle, faithful, obedient

Height: 25.5-27.5 inches (male), 24-26.5 inches (female)

Weight: 70-110 pounds

Life expectancy: 10-12 years

2. English Foxhound

While the English foxhound is considered one of the rarest and best breeds, you aren't likely to find these dogs in most homes. They are such good hunters that English foxhounds can do little else.

While they are affectionate and gentle, they're hyper-focused on their work, which is, of course, hunting. If added to a family, the sociable English foxhound will thrive with lots of running or hiking on large properties.

English Foxhound Overview

Temperament: Affectionate, gentle, sociable

Height: 24 inches

Weight: 60-75 pounds

Life expectancy: 10-13 years

1. Finnish Spitz

The adorable fox lookalike is the national dog of Finland. But the Finnish spitz has lived all over Scandinavia for thousands of years. These adorable, rare pups who are known for loving kids also share DNA with the Taimyr wolf, according to the AKC.

These friendly dogs are known for their lively nature and bark hunting. Their barking is so well-known that they are also called Finnish barking bird dogs.

Finnish Spitz Overview

Temperament: Friendly, good-natured, lively

Height: 17.5-20 inches (male), 15.5-18 inches (female)

Weight: 25-33 pounds (male), 20-28 pounds (female)

Life expectancy: 13-15 years