If everyone had the same dog, the world would be a much less interesting place. Most of us are familiar with standard dog breeds, but there are also some very unusual, if not downright bizarre, breeds. We have collected information about the twenty most unusual dog breeds in the world today. Some of them you will easily recognize, while others are so few or new that they have not yet been recognized even by the International Kennel Club.
Here's our selection of the weirdest dog breeds:
Komondor
The Komondor breed originated in Hungary. This is one of the largest dogs in the world. In adulthood, this Hungarian Shepherd has an average height of 76 cm at the withers. It looks even larger due to its huge coat, which is by far the thickest in the canine world.
The Komondor is one of the shaggiest breeds. In appearance, he resembles the world's largest mop with hair that has a tangled, almost dreadful appearance. This unusual-looking dog has fur so long that its eyes cannot even be seen through it, so many people reasonably wonder how a Komondor can see through a thick veil of hair.
Deerhound (Scottish Deerhound)
This breed became famous as a “no-bark” dog. He has a quiet, calm disposition and does not bother him by barking.
The Deerhound is a large animal with long, coarse hair and belongs to the greyhound group. In the modern world they are not used for hunting. But so that the deerhound can maintain its hunting qualities, run around and enjoy the hunt, mechanical hare hunting competitions are organized in Europe, where deerhounds take part.
The height of males at the withers is 76 centimeters, females - 71 centimeters, weight, respectively, 45.5 kilograms and 36.5 kilograms. Life expectancy is 9-10 years.
The Deerhound breed is small in the world; its population is mainly concentrated in England and Scotland. In Russia, the breed is represented by several individuals: breeders and lovers of elegant Scottish greyhounds know them by name. Due to the small number of dogs, the National Deerhound Dog Lovers Club is not registered in Russia.
Bedlington Terrier
This terrier variety is named after its place of origin - Bedlington, England. In truth, it is difficult to distinguish this dog from a sheep. The Bedlington Terrier is similar in appearance to a standard-sized poodle, but its gray, tightly curled coat is as thick as sheep's wool. In addition, the Bedlington Terrier's coat is famous for its hypoallergenicity.
This is an interesting breed with a rather quirky appearance. The body from the side looks like an inverted letter S with curvy contours. This breed is truly one of a kind and is included in the list of the rarest dogs in the world. If you don't mind the Bedlington Terrier's strange appearance, it makes an excellent four-legged companion for people prone to allergies. In addition, the Bedlington Terrier's temperament is cheerful and peaceful.
Swedish Vallhund
Swedish Vallhunds are athletic dogs characterized by obedience, agility, and hard work. In addition to this, they are traditionally farm dogs used for herding livestock. The “small, powerful, fearless” breed comes in a variety of colors and tail lengths, from none at all to a beautiful curl. This is a sociable and cheerful dog, it will find contact with both children and adults.
Bullets
Pulis are definitely one of the most unique dog breeds. He has an unusual Jamaican-style coat that cascades downwards, giving Puli the appearance of a hairy barrel on four short legs.
This type of shepherd dog, which looks like a smaller version of the Komondor, also comes from Hungary. It was originally bred in the Middle Ages as a working dog to help herd livestock. Therefore, puli is famous for its endurance and unpretentiousness. Puli wool, with its tightly curled dreadlocks, is actually quite unusual in appearance, and one of its most interesting properties is its high resistance to water.
Russian greyhound
The Russian Greyhound, of course, was originally bred in Russia. The dog's body shape is similar to a greyhound, but its coat is unique in that it is smooth on top and becomes thicker and curlier near the belly and legs. These unusual-looking dogs are a nightmare for trainers. They are famous for their stubbornness and excessive independence. The Russian Greyhound is quite active and loves to hunt and chase small animals.
Slovak dude
The breed has been known as a mountain herding and guard dog since the 17th century. The dogs are strong and large. Males can grow up to 70 cm and gain weight up to 45 kg. The dude's proportions are correct. The body is slightly longer than tall. The stomach and sides are tightened. Legs of medium length, straight. The chest is voluminous. The proportionate head rests on a powerful neck.
The fur is thick, wavy with undercoat. Males have a noticeable fur collar. The color is exclusively white. Yellow ears are possible, but not desirable. Dudes have excellent performance, a patient, calm character, and are non-aggressive. They can act as companions.
Brussels Griffon
At first glance, the Brussels Griffon makes one think that the Ewok from the Star Wars saga escaped and crossed with a terrier. This strange looking little dog doesn't realize he's a small dog breed. The Brussels Griffon walks around the yard looking for someone to intimidate. Brussels Griffons usually try to dominate other dogs in their area. They are confident dogs who proclaim their dominance, so it is important to start training them from day one and make sure they know that you are the dominant part of the equation.
Criteria determining the rarity of a breed
There is no approved list of characteristics that would classify a particular breed of dog as rare. But there are several factors that help classify them as such:
- unknown to a wide range of dog lovers and breeders;
- by low popularity;
- according to the difficulty of breeding;
- by prevalence in a limited area;
- due to poor quality selection results.
Each region of the planet can create its own ratings of rare breeds. This is due to the fact that dogs, which are found everywhere in their homeland, are almost absent abroad and are known only to specialists. Examples of such breeds are Moscow watchdogs, Russian hunting spaniels, and Russian toy terriers. Outside of Russia, they are considered a rare species of dog and are perceived as exotic.
In the rankings of the top rare breeds, expensive, designer, and unusual dogs often appear. Very wealthy people can afford to have such pets.
Alaskan Klee Kais can emphasize the wealth and social status of their owner.
Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher was first bred in Germany for the purpose of hunting rats. This strange-looking dog is of medium size and build, and although there is nothing unusual in the shape of its body, its main feature is its coat. The Affenpinscher is covered in brown or dark gray (almost black) curls, with some parts of its body appearing shaggier than others, giving these small dogs a ragged appearance. However, the fur is so unusual and bizarre that it looks quite stylish and extravagant. Affenpinschers like to be busy both mentally and physically, otherwise they may develop unwanted behavioral problems.
Neapolitan Mastiff
Imagine a sumo wrestler turned into a dog, and you get the Neopolitan Mastiff. This large breed of dog is one of the most unusual in appearance. Just the sight of a Neopolitan Mastiff is enough to make you very scared. In adulthood, it weighs up to 59 kg. He has a huge body mass and excessively saggy skin, especially on his neck.
However, try not to be too intimidated by the appearance of the Neopolitan Mastiff. It makes one of the most effective guard dogs on the planet. Neapolitan Mastiffs are famous for their loyalty and sociability, but it is not recommended for families with young children to have them. The Neapolitan Mastiff is a jealous owner who shows his jealousy through aggression.
What breeds are very few in Russia?
The least common in Russia are:
- Carolina dogs are recently domesticated animals, well adapted to droughts and high temperatures and cannot tolerate cold;
- Mudi - little-known Hungarian shepherd dogs;
- Norwegian Lundenhunds are Norwegian huskies, highly specialized hunters who, thanks to their special body structure, can climb rocks and get into holes;
- Thai Ridgebacks are the national breed of Thailand, considered one of the oldest known to man.
Exotic pets attract attention due to their unique appearance. But before you bring them into your apartment or house, it is important to realize that such animals require increased attention and constant painstaking care.
Bergamasco Shepherd
The Bergamasco is one of the most unique dog breeds, not only because of its original appearance, but also because the puppies are completely different from adults. This Italian herding dog breed is born with short, smooth hair. As puppies grow older, their hair grows longer until it becomes long, knotty locks that extend down their body a dozen centimeters. Adult Bergamasco Shepherds look like they really need a trip to the groomer.
Shar Pei
An ancient dog breed of Chinese origin. During its existence, it was used for protection, hunting, and even as a fighting dog.
A varied past has left its mark on the basic characteristics of the Shar Pei and today it is distinguished by its complex character.
Shar Peis have an original appearance due to folds of skin, especially numerous in the head area. Externally, the animal’s fur is similar to velor, but it feels hard to the touch.
The folded skin once protected Shar Peis from injury in fights.
Life expectancy is on average 10 years, height is 44-51 centimeters, weight is 18-35 kilograms. Shar Pei dogs require training and education, otherwise they grow into willful dogs capable of terrorizing not only their family, but also the areas adjacent to the house. An adult cannot be re-educated.
Interest in Shar Peis has increased over the years. Shar Pei nurseries have been opened in Russia.
Bull Terrier
Most of us are familiar with this British breed. Bull Terriers have an unusual egg-shaped head. Add to this the sharp, pointed ears and slanted eyes, and you get something of a curiosity in the dog world. Another physical feature that makes this dog so damn weird is its massive body with muscular limbs. The Bull Terrier is an active breed that requires a high level of physical activity.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are famous for their affectionate and gentle nature. They are small lap dogs that never seem to get enough attention. They were originally bred as fighting dogs. Spectator sport was cruel and fell out of fashion, which is a plus for this strange looking little dog with a sad face.
The French Bulldog is a muscular, compact dog with a small muzzle, flattened nose, erect bat ears and expressive eyes. The tail is naturally short. Despite its tiny size, the French Bulldog is a fierce protector of its family. His character is cheerful and sociable. The breed is extremely active and playful.
Brazilian Fila
This breed was the result of crossing a mastiff, an English bulldog and a bloodhound. The Fila Brasileiro is a large-boned mastiff with large bones and a massive body. This huge dog is covered in loose skin with a smooth, brindle-colored coat. The muzzle is drooping with wrinkles that cascade down the neck and sway when running. The Fila Brasileiro borrowed this feature from the Bloodhound.
The Fila Brasiliensis was originally bred to be a tracker. Over almost a century of existence, he has created a reputation for himself as a dog with a stubborn disposition and aggressive temperament. So the Brazilian Fila is an excellent guard dog that does not tolerate strangers at all.
Chinese Crested Dog
It is considered a very ancient breed. Information about the origin of this dog is quite contradictory. Targeted selection and breeding began in the middle of the last century. The main cynological associations recognized the crested dog as an independent breed after 1980.
The breed comes in two versions: hairless and medium-haired. In one litter there may be puppies covered with hair and devoid of fur. A hairless dog is not completely hairless. She has growth on her paws, tail and long strands on her head. Dogs of both versions belong to non-working, decorative breeds. Their playful, easy-going nature makes them excellent companions.
Catalburun
The Catalburun dog breed is one of the rarest in the world. They come from Turkey and were originally bred as hunting dogs. What really makes this breed one of the most bizarre is the forked nose. Add to this the long floppy ears and you have a strikingly strange-looking dog. It is believed that the reason the Catalburun have such an odd appearance is that due to their rarity, they have been massively inbred, resulting in unattractive physical characteristics.
Chinook
Seeing a Chinook on the street, almost 100% of passers-by will decide that an ordinary mongrel is running in front of them, which has been prowling the street for several days. Indeed, it is unlikely that anyone who is not a dog breeder will be able to discern in this appearance the features of a rare and very expensive breed. A kind and hopeful look, funny drooping ears, a shadow of curiosity on his face - all this makes the Chinook very similar to any Sharik from the gateway.
However, the famous American breeder A. Walden was involved in breeding this breed at the beginning of the last century for many years, and he achieved excellent results: this variety is one of the best among all sled dogs. It is incredibly resilient, strong, and can easily withstand any natural disasters, which is why from the first years of its existence it has earned very high marks from specialists.
After the founder of the breed died, its numbers sharply declined. By the 80s of the last century, there were only 11 copies in the world, which is a critical indicator. At the moment, experts from all over the world are working to restore the number, and Chinook can even be purchased if desired, but the price for it still remains high.
New Guinea singing dog
This dog makes our list because of its unique voice. Its howl resembles the singing of birds or whales. If you've never heard a dog sing before, this is your chance because he will serenade you day and night.
Externally, the New Guinea Singing Dog looks like a large fox with wide, pointed ears. This dog was once a wild subspecies of the wolf that was tamed. The New Guinea Singing Dog is renowned for its intelligence, flexibility and agility. They are also fantastic climbers.
Keeping rare dogs
Any breed requires a special approach. Owners of the rarest Wolf representatives need to know the basic principles.
- Knowing that a rare dog is desirable, then before buying you need to carefully study the character, habits, and behavior.
- It is important to determine the reasons for the acquisition. They may be for the sake of exoticism, breeding, or because they liked the dog at first sight or because it is rare for the region.
- When keeping a puppy, you must immediately accustom him to walks and socialize him.
- This rare breed is special and has a complex character.
- Only experienced owners who know how to deal with problems of aggression and disobedience should get such a dog.
Moody
Mudi is a herding dog originally from Hungary. They were bred in the Middle Ages to herd and protect flocks of sheep. This is an unusual looking dog with dense, fluffy curls of gray, black, brown or ash color. In fact, the Mudi looks like a cross between a dog and a llama, with a long neck and curly hair.
The Mudi is one of the most versatile and multi-talented dog breeds in the world. In addition to being good herding dogs, they are also excellent hunters and rodent exterminators. This dog should not be kept in small confined spaces. Due to its nature, the Mudi requires wide open spaces in which it can move freely. If the Mudi is kept in small areas, he will need to go on long daily walks.
Leonberger
Leonberger
"Leonberger" means "mountain lion" in German. There are two versions of the origin of these dogs.
According to the first, this dog breed was bred in the city of the same name, Leonberg. The fact is that the coat of arms of this city depicts a lion, so one dog breeder (Mr. Essig) came up with the idea of bringing a breed of dog that looks like a lion. He crossed different breeds and eventually got what he wanted. This happened in 1848.
According to the second version, the Leonberger was known much earlier, although it had a different name. Allegedly, in the Middle Ages, these dogs served as livestock guards for farmers, where they were noticed by wealthy Europeans. As a result, the dogs were brought to many palaces in Europe, for example, the wife of the King of France, Marie Antoinette, bought herself a huge Leonberger.
But in the 19th century, this breed of dogs was struck by a disease - distemper - and they all died. After this, the aforementioned Mr. Essig, having difficulty finding surviving dogs, was able to recreate this breed. According to experts, he deliberately invented a story about an allegedly newly created breed of dogs in order to raise their price. And, I must say, he succeeded.
In the first half of the 20th century, Leonbergers practically disappeared from the face of the earth - only three dogs remained. But, fortunately, this breed was again able to be “resurrected”, although in Russia it is still the rarest breed of dog.
Other names for this adorable dog are “Bichon Lion” and “Lion Dog”. Levchen is a relative of the lapdog, which also has very thick and beautiful fur, which is usually cut, leaving, like a lion, a “broom” at the tip of the tail and a “mane” on the neck and head, in order to correspond to the name.
Leonbergers have always been excellent guard dogs and affectionate pets. You heard right, these giants with the appearance of a lion have a magnificent calm character, they are very affectionate, sociable, attached to children and to their owner, and at the same time, if necessary, they will zealously protect those they consider their family. Leonbergers are easy to train and happily follow all the owner’s commands.
One purebred puppy of this breed costs at least 50 thousand rubles.
Lagotto Romagnolo
It is also called the Italian water dog. This breed originates from the Romagna region of Italy. They were first bred as hunting dogs, but have evolved into some of the best truffle hunters in the world. What makes them so unusual is that they have the face of a Brussels Griffon and the body of a standard-sized large poodle.
The coat of the Lagotto Romagnolo most closely resembles a dirty carpet with thick tufts of tight curls covering the entire body of the dog, with the exception of the muzzle area. The color of the fur can be of all shades of brown, from pale yellow to dark brown. Less common are Lagotto Romagnolos that are white or mixed in color.
Xoloitzcuintle or Xolo
This breed is considered a state treasure in Mexico. The name, no less outlandish than the dog itself, comes from the language of the Mexican Indians, often pronounced differently: sholoitzcuintle or sholo. In the Nahuatl language, the name of the dog reveals the divine origin of the animal: “dog of the god Xolotl.”
The Mexican Hairless Dog (this is another name for it) is considered the oldest breed. Their mummified bodies are found in the tombs of the Mayans, Aztecs, and Zapotecs. Burials, drawings and figurines of hairless dogs are over 3,500 years old. Canine standards describe three sizes of dogs:
- large, height from floor to withers 60 cm;
- average, height up to 45 cm;
- small, height up to 35 cm.
Xolo is a slender, hairless dog. Her features include almond-shaped, slightly protruding eyes; big ears a la “bat”; long neck. Body hairlessness is not an absolute sign. One litter may contain hairless and furred puppies. The coated Xolo is believed to be the original version of the Xoloitzcuintle dog breed.
Azawakh
This breed of greyhound originates in West Africa. While there is no doubt that the Azawakh is graceful in appearance, its elongated neck appears stretched to an abnormal size. This configuration makes the head look too small.
The Azawakh is known to have an intelligence that is well above average in the canine universe. It has a short coat that comes in a wide variety of colors and markings. Azawakhs make excellent companions; they are selflessly devoted to their owners and fiercely protect them.
Levchen
More often the breed is called the small lion dog. In 1973, the number of these animals reached a minimum: only 65 individuals remained. Nowadays, more than a hundred purebred Levchens have been registered. Once upon a time, these dogs were present in all the aristocratic houses of Europe.
Lewchens are long-haired dogs belonging to the Bichon group. Their usual weight is 3-4 kg, maximum - 6 kg. The coat is neither straight nor curly, but rather wavy and quite hard. The wool does not fly away and does not accumulate dust. Because of this, long-haired Levchens have minor allergic effects. Otherwise, Lewchens differ little from other Bichons and lapdogs.
Peruvian hairless dog
This breed has several names: Calato, Peruvian Inca Orchid, Viringo and Inca Hairless Dog. This is perhaps one of the most bizarre dogs on Earth. The Peruvian Hairless Dog is an ancient breed that originated in Peru around 750 AD. Despite its centuries-old history, this breed is not very common throughout the world.
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is one of the rarest species in the world. Some dogs of this breed are completely hairless, with a few tufts of hair on the top of their heads. This gives them a unique, but slightly off-putting appearance. They are highly prized for their hunting instincts, intelligence, speed and agility. The colors of fur and skin are very diverse.
Which dogs are considered rare?
There are several ways to determine the "rarity" of a breed.
- Habitat. It must be appropriate to natural conditions.
- The purpose of a dog, based on the types of human activities.
- Origin story.
- Conditions for disappearance. An example is the extermination of some breeds in connection with numerous military operations in Europe and Asia.
- Selection work to develop new breeds for different purposes. Recently, more and more decorative dogs are appearing, and less and less hunting dogs.
Rare breeds are those that are not considered popular. Their population is small. But they retain the natural characteristics inherent in them originally.
Catahoula Leopard Dog
This breed originates in the United States in Catahoula Parish, Louisiana. It is believed to be the first dog first bred in the United States. When you look at a Catahoula leopard dog, the first thing you see is its striking, bright eyes. Although eyes come in a variety of colors, blue eyes are considered the most striking. They contrast well with a spotted coat, which is often a mixture of various whites, browns, grays and reds in a swirl of spots. The Catahoula Leopard Dog comes in a variety of colors, but leopard-like spotting is present on all members of the breed. This dog is used primarily for hunting wild boar in the southern states of the country.
TOP 25: The strangest dog breeds
Almost everyone knows that there are certain dog breeds, such as the Golden Retriever and the German Shepherd, but did you know that there are many more, and some of them are truly unusual? Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and temperaments, but honestly, some dogs' appearances defy common sense. Covered in thick, shaggy fur or with oddly shaped bodies, these dogs are worth a look. But just because they look weird doesn't mean they aren't cute or worth bringing into your home. Are you ready to see strange dogs? Here are 25 of the most amazing dog breeds. 25. Bull Terrier
Photo: commons.wikimedia.org
Bred in the 19th century as a fighting dog, the Bull Terrier is quite a fearsome looking dog. However, they are said to be actually quite friendly dogs suitable for families. The strangest part of this breed is the dog's unusual egg-shaped head.
24. Brazilian Fila
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The Fila Brasil, also known as the Brazilian Mastiff, was bred as a hunting dog. He is also a guard dog and herds livestock. Did we mention that it can also hunt big game like a jaguar? You don't want to mess with this dog. They are very loyal and hate being touched by strangers.
23. Moody
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Bred in Hungary to herd sheep, the Mudi is extremely fast and has a very thick coat. While most members of this breed are black in color, there are dogs of the rare "cifra" color - with dark and light gray coats that may have spots or marbled patterns.
22. Catahoula Leopard Dog
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The Catahoula Leopard Dog is also distinguished by its marbled spotted coat, which gives it an unusual appearance. Bred in North Louisiana to herd hogs, these animals are good family dogs, affectionate and excellent protectors.
21. New Guinea singing dog
Photo: flickr.com
There is a good reason why they are called New Guinea Singing Dogs. Their howl is unlike anything you've ever heard before, but while you can see a dog like this on video, you're unlikely to be able to hear it in person. In New Guinea they are extremely rare wild dogs. 20. Lagotto Romagnolo
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The Lagotto Romagnolo is a unique Italian breed that would have almost become extinct if a group of dog breeders had not been able to preserve it. These dogs have a unique thick, curly coat, and they were bred specifically for hunting waterfowl and searching for truffles.
19. Otterhound
Photo: Pxhere.com
The Otterhound was bred to do exactly what its name suggests - hunt otters. Of all the animals you can hunt, the otter is a rather strange choice. This breed has a keen sense of smell and a very long, shaggy coat.
18. Neapolitan Mastiff
Photo: en.wikipedia.org
Large, wrinkled and ugly, the Neapolitan Mastiff was bred to be a guard dog but is today considered a "gentle giant."
17. Affenpinscher
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The Affenpinscher is a tiny companion dog originally bred to catch rats. But honestly, she looks like the Ewoks from Star Wars.
16. Thai Ridgeback
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The Thai Ridgeback is a primitive dog breed from Thailand that was used for hunting and harnessed to carts. Although, like most primitive breeds, they are very difficult to train.
15. Norwegian Lundehund
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The Norwegian Lundehund is a very strange dog, it has six toes on each foot, two of which are connected into a common system. The dog was originally used to climb rocks and retrieve eggs from petrel nests. This breed also has some pretty amazing acrobatic talents with a wide range of movement.
14. Brussels Griffon
Photo: en.wikipedia.org
Another dog similar to the Ewok is the Brussels Griffon, a former Belgian mongrel bred to hunt rats. This breed has a fairly high intelligence and sense of humor, so it always keeps its owners on their toes.
13. Shar Pei
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Looking like a pile of wrinkled laundry with a snout, the Shar Pei was bred to guard, hunt and fight, but is now simply a beloved companion dog for many owners.
12. Tibetan Mastiff
Photo: commons.wikimedia.org
This primitive Tibetan breed is known for its fluffy coat, especially on the top of its head. The dog was bred to guard livestock, but today is widely used as a show breed.
11. Phu Quoc Ridgeback
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Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a very rare breed of dog from the Vietnamese island of Phu Quoc. Since this breed was isolated on the island for a long time, the dogs boast a good pure pedigree. The breed got its name from the peculiarity of the fur growing on its back: it grows in the opposite direction from the hair on the rest of the body.
10. Azawakh
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The Azawakh breed originates from the Sahara Desert and is a tall, thin dog with very long legs. They are hunters, loyal and capable of protecting their homes.
9. Russian Greyhound
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With an unusually long nose, the Russian Greyhound looks more like an anteater than a dog. They were bred and trained to hunt hares, foxes and wolves in packs of three. Much later they became companions of the kings.
8. Xoloitzcuintle
Photo: commons.wikimedia.org
Good luck pronouncing its name! This dog is also called the Mexican Hairless Dog and is believed to be descended from the first dogs to walk on North American soil. People love to hug them because dogs give off warmth from their bodies.
7. Pumi
Photo: commons.wikimedia.org
The Pumi is a newer but also rare breed with a small number of litters originating in the United States. This breed comes from Hungary and is descended from the Puli breed.
6. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
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Looking like he just got a curl at the barbershop, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier was bred to hunt otters and badgers. This is a calm and reserved breed that is considered the "gentleman of the terrier family."
5. Bullets
Photo: commons.wikimedia.org
The Puli breed has a thick, shaggy coat that is hard to believe dogs can see through. But don't be fooled, this is a rugged herding dog and is often seen at dog shows.
4. Bergamasco Shepherd
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The Bergamasco Shepherd looks like a big carpet. Her long fur is unlike anything we have ever seen.
3. Bedlington Terrier
Photo: commons.wikimedia.org
The Bedlington Terrier looks like a space alien. With a thick, curly coat and floppy ears, the breed was once used for rat hunting and is often seen today at dog shows.
2. Chinese Crested Dog
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Bred as a companion dog for the disabled, the Chinese Crested Dog is very suitable for this and can practically read minds. However, its unusual appearance may surprise you greatly.
1. Peruvian Hairless Dog
Photo: commons.wikimedia.org
The Peruvian Hairless Dog, also known as the Quechua, is native to the Andes. Its name means "undressed dog" or "hairless dog", and although it may be covered in fur, most of this breed do not. Those dogs that are hairless may have a tiny patch of hair on the top of their head. Lively and alert, they are also good hunting dogs.
Norwegian Lundehund
The dog was bred in Norway to hunt puffins, a species of Atlantic seabird. What's so unusual about this breed is that they have six toes on each foot. They also have full control of their ears, which usually remain fixed and pointed upward, and they can tilt their head back until it touches their back bone. Norwegians value Lundehunds for their agility, flexibility and energy. They make wonderful pets.
Chongqing
The name itself makes it clear that this rare breed got its name from the Chinese language. Chongqing is an ancient Chinese city where Europeans were first able to see this extraordinary dog. In addition to the fact that the variety is very rare, it is also one of the oldest on the planet.
The surprising thing is that no people worked on its selection: the genes of this group still remain in their original form, since mixing with representatives of other breeds never occurred. This makes it especially valuable for dog handlers. Crossbreeding has never been carried out for the simple reason that the physical and mental characteristics of the Chongqing are almost ideal and there is no need to improve them.
A couple of centuries ago, such a specimen could only be found at the court of the Chinese emperor; even individuals close to the court could not afford such a pet. The situation has not changed much these days: maintaining houses in Chongqing is quite problematic. But stone and bronze sculptures of such dogs found in the burials of emperors prove that they occupied a special place and enjoyed the love of the rulers.
Since China remained a country isolated from the rest of the world for many centuries, acquaintance with Chongqing made a huge impression on Europeans and Americans. The oriental longevity inherent in people from this country has not bypassed their pets: the life expectancy of Chongqing is about 20 years! This lifespan forces us to remember that this animal in any family will become more than an ordinary pet. The makings of an excellent hunter and insight are the main traits that appear in adult Chongqing.
Otterhound
These unusual dogs come from Great Britain. The Otterhound was created by crossing an Airedale Terrier and a Bloodhound. This is a huge dog with a strong build. She can withstand any physical activity.
Otterhounds are amazing swimmers, whose agility in the water can be the envy of even otters. This is because they have webbed feet and strong limbs. The Otterhound's coat is coarse and harsh. This breed is also distinguished by an excellent sense of smell. Otterhounds have a natural instinct that makes them one of the best trackers. They are friendly and inquisitive, so they can be kept as pets. Unfortunately, this breed is in danger of extinction. There are approximately 1,000 Otterhounds worldwide.
pros
Breeding and restoration of rare breeds has a positive effect on the development of the population of exclusive representatives of the fauna. This kind of work helps expand our understanding of the origin of relict breeds and their role in the emergence of new dogs.
Some breeds are on the verge of extinction. Natural characteristics are lost. It is valuable that the rare breed has not been subjected to selection. Known since ancient times, they have retained all those qualities that were most valued.
The absence of closely related crosses excludes genetic defects and mutations.
