36. Bolognese
If you’re looking for an affectionate dog and you’re not worried at all about your budget, you should consider getting a Bolognese. Sure, we know that the breed’s name is not exactly charming, but these dogs are easily one of the most adorable pets you can ever have around.
If you need a dog that will make you feel happy when you’re sad, get a Bolognese. But if you spend a lot of time out of the house and there’s no one to keep your dog company, you’re better off saving that money to get a different breed.
35. Basenji
If your landlord tells you you can’t get a dog because of all the barking, the Basenji is perfect for you. This breed is unique in the sense that they don’t bark at all! Well, they do make other noises, but at least they don’t bark.
Aside from that, these dogs are really active and will need to exercise on a daily basis. If you’re not up for that, you’re not fit for these independent and energetic dogs. Also, when we say they make random noises, we mean that they’re louder than Huskies, so keep that in mind.
34. Carolina Dog
Now, if you’re looking for a big dog that kind of looks like a wolf, you have to go with the Carolina Dog. This breed is native to North America, and they are great hunters. However, they don’t hunt with scent; they do it with sight.
These big boys can grow up to 19.5 inches and weigh up to 55 pounds, which means they’re big and need plenty of space. They can be really shy when they first meet you, but once they get used to you, they’ll love you forever.
33. Karelian Bear Dog
So far, we have shown you a lot of hunters that need a lot of physical activity. However, not every adult [human] is active, and they probably don’t want to go on walks every single day. If you’re one of these people, don’t worry. You can always get a Karelian Bear dog.
These big guys don’t really need daily activity, so you can easily get away with exercising together two or three days a week. Karelian Bears are also a bit shy and like to mind their own business, so don’t feel offended by that.
32. Stabyhoun
We can’t talk about big dogs and not mention the Stabyhoun. These guys can grow up over twenty inches and weigh up to 60 pounds! And just like most big creatures, they’re incredibly sweet and affectionate. As a matter of fact, they’ll do everything to get you to love them.
In spite of their size, Stabyhouns are really gentle, which makes them great to have around kids. But we do have to mention that they were originally bred to hunt moles, so don’t be upset if you come back one day to find them digging holes in the garden!
31. Mudi
Despite their name, these dogs aren’t moody at all. Well, maybe a little around strangers, but once they get used to someone, they’re literally the most loyal dogs you have ever seen. On top of that, they’re really brave dogs, so they’ll face anything and anyone to keep you safe.
But while they will always put themselves on the line for you and your family members, they are not friendly with strangers. If you have friends or neighbors who come over a lot, you’ll have to get your dog used to them first.
30. Azawakh
Anyone who is looking for a skinny dog has to at least consider getting an Azawakh. These leggy dogs can grow up to 29 inches (or 27 inches if it’s a girl) while weighing somewhere between 44-55 pounds. They’re really elegant and run faster than you can imagine.
While they’re totally independent, these dogs are also really affectionate and will be loyal to every person in the household. They were originally hunters, and they still like to keep active. Azawakhs are also incredibly smart, so they need to be trained from a young age.
29. Thai Ridgeback
Looking for a muscular dog but everyone in your neighborhood already has a Pitbull? Well, you can always get a Thai Ridgeback. These muscular dogs are rare and look really unique, as they have a patch of hair that grows in a different direction!
While they’re loving and incredibly intelligent, not everyone can raise a Thai Ridgeback at home. If you have never had a medium-sized dog before, you probably won’t know how to handle your Ridgeback, and that can deeply affect their development.
28. Peruvian Inca Orchid
Most dogs need to spend some time outside so they can release all their built-up energy. However, that’s not the case with the Peruvian Inca Orchid. Actually, these dogs don’t do well at all outdoors, which is quite peculiar. This is definitely good news for people who don’t like going outside, either.
This breed was initially meant to be hunters, and they haven’t lost that trait. However, they have been mostly companion dogs for a while, so they’re perfect for keeping you company as they’re loving and affectionate (but not with small children).
27. Catahoula Leopard Dog
Another muscular dog that you can get is the Catahoula leopard dog. These guys can grow up to 24 inches, but they can weigh up to 95 pounds, which means they’re huge. A fun fact about these dogs is that they’re originally from Louisiana. Oh, and they have beautiful eyes.
Now, as you can probably tell by their size, these dogs are really powerful. In other words, you need to train them from a young age, so they know how to behave when hanging out with strangers and other dogs.
26. Bedlington Terrier
Having a unique-looking dog is a really interesting experience. Every time you step outside your home, someone will compliment your dog and ask you about the breed. If you revel in the constant attention your dog gets, you should totally get a Bedlington Terrier.
With the right haircut, you can make your Bedlington look even more unique! These dogs are perfect for families who are looking for affectionate, charming, and playful dogs. They’ll certainly keep everyone entertained when it’s time for the annual family reunion!
25. Tibetan Mastiff
Living in freezing weather means that you need to get furry dogs, and no dog is furrier than the Tibetan Mastiff. These dogs are so big that you literally cannot predict just how big they will get. You can only tell their minimum height, which is around 26 inches.
Tibetan Mastiffs can weigh over a hundred pounds, so be aware that they will need to grow up in a big house. In spite of their size, they’re pretty agile dogs. They’ll love you and your family deeply, but they’re not so friendly with strangers, so start getting them used to others early on.
24. Finnish Lapphund
Nobody adopts a dog thinking of how reserved or distant it will be. We see cute dogs on social media doing loving stuff for their owners all the time, and that is what we want. In this case, you should consider getting a Lapphund.
These dogs were originally herders, so they love working and can learn new tricks pretty easily. They’re a bit wary of strangers, which means they will always try to protect you. But keep in mind that they need to go on daily walks.
23. Glen of Imaal Terrier
Terrier dogs are really popular among dog owners, and this breed should definitely be a favorite. These rare dogs are really gentle and lively, so they are perfect for any household that has young children. They were originally farm dogs, so they love having “work” to do.
If you get one of these terriers, you will need to have enough space for them to run around. They’re spirited dogs who love to keep things active. But if you have kids, this shouldn’t be a problem as they’ll play with your dog and keep them exercised.
22. Norwegian Buhund
Some spitz breeds can be really tiny, and others can be huge. But the Norwegian Buhund is like a moderate version of these furry dogs. They’re medium-sized animals that are built specifically for cold places. In other words, Floridians and tropical country folks should stay away from them!
According to historians, these dogs literally sailed with Vikings — back when they still existed. See why they’re so rare? But unlike their original owners, these dogs are really affectionate and gentle, and they’ll make your home much happier with their presence.
21. Scottish Deerhound
For the ladies who love scrawny boys, you will definitely love this next dog. Though the Scottish Deerhound is one step above those guys because they were literally considered royalty back in the day. Apparently, you couldn’t get one of these unless you were at least an Earl.
The Scottish Deerhound can grow well over 32 inches, and they weigh up to 110 pounds. This obviously means that you cannot get one of them unless your house has enough space for them. Also, they need exercise to develop fully, so you better get ready for long walks on a daily basis.
20. Curly-Coated Retriever
If you want a Retriever, but not the Golden one, you should look into getting a Curly-Coated Retriever. As you can tell by the name, these dogs have curly hair, which definitely makes them stand out in a crowd. That and the fact that they are one of the first Retriever breeds.
Once upon a time, these dogs were really popular among sportspeople in Europe. When they got to Oceania, they became the favorite breed for hunters. They’re really smart dogs, but they’re also proud, so you don’t want to hurt their feelings.
19. Cirneco dell’Etna
If you watched (and loved) the second season of The White Lotus as much as we did, you have probably already booked your flight tickets to Italy next summer. But did you know that you can bring a piece of Sicily to your home if you adopt a Cirneco dell’Etna?
These unique-looking dogs are great at hunting animals like rabbits and hares. Why are they good at that? Because they’re incredibly fast. We mean, look at that athletic physique! Is it really that surprising that these skinny queens and kings can outrun their prey?
18. Spinone Italiano
Another Italian dog that is super talented at hunting is the Spinone Italiano. However, these dogs are really furry, so they’re better off living in cold places. The Spinone is also really fancy, considering that they originally lived in the Alps!
If you’re looking for a patient and sociable dog, these guys are perfect for you. They’re also perfect for anyone who is looking for a cute dog that they can snuggle with all day. Just look at that face. Who can say not to cuddle time with this dog?!
17. Sloughi
If you’re a fan of tall dogs, you’ve probably already looked into getting a greyhound. The Sloughi is one of the rarest breeds you can find, but they are definitely worth your buck and your time — if you’re looking for a rare pooch, that is.
These doggos used to belong to Arabian kings and Egyptian nobles, so they are graceful. They’re pretty good at hunting, and they’re really fast. However, you need to be gentle when training them, or else you’ll have a lean 2-foot-tall dog to deal with.
16. Lagotto Romagnolo
Another Italian pup that will give you White Lotus feels is the Lagotto Romagnolo. They’re adorable, curly-coated dogs that will do anything to make you happy. Doesn’t that sound great? They’re literally one of the most low-maintenance breeds on this list.
If you can’t take your dog on walks all the time, that won’t be a problem. And if you can’t spend every waking moment showering them with affection, that’s also fine. These guys are not demanding at all, and they’re good at finding truffles. They’re perfect!
15. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
If you’re looking for a very tiny dog with a fancy name, look no further than the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. They don’t grow over 11 inches, which makes them one of the smallest breeds on this list. And they have been around since the 1800s, so this is an incredibly rare breed.
While the Dandie Dinmont is a small baby, they’re really proud dogs that make up for their lack of height with their personalities. While they’re really tiny, they can weigh up to 24 pounds, so you need to keep them active to avoid weight-related health issues.
14. Bergamasco Sheepdog
If what you really want is a dog that will get everyone’s attention, you should totally get a Bergamasco Sheepdog. With one of these adorable creatures, we can assure you that every walk at the park will be like an event.
See what we’re talking about? These dogs have a very distinct coating that literally looks like dreadlocks. These unique dogs can weigh up to 70 pounds and grow up to 23 inches, and they’re really smart. Though they can be pretty lazy, they’ll muster up the energy to protect their owners.
13. Skye Terrier
According to some anecdotes, one of the earliest Skye Terriers became popular in the 19th century because it refused to leave its owner’s grave for over a decade. While this is a heartbreaking story, it just goes to show that these dogs are loyal.
Skye dogs are really tiny, but that doesn’t mean they’re companion material. If you’re looking for a family dog, keep in mind that you will need to find the right person to train your puppy. That’s because a Skye Terrier has a lot of personality.
12. Pyrenean Shepherd
Shepherd dogs weren’t originally meant to be companion dogs, but that’s what they have become over the years. And the Pyrenean Shepherd is no different. It was originally meant to be a sheepdog, but now it is an active and naughty companion dog.
These dogs come from the Pyrenees, and they’re really intelligent. A Pyrenean Shepherd doesn’t grow that much physically, but its energy certainly will. As such, you should not get one of these if you don’t plan on taking them to the dog park regularly.
11. American Foxhound
When you take a look at this dog, you will probably think that it is a Beagle. As you probably know, Beagles are not rare, so this is not a Beagle. It’s an American Foxhound, and it’s one of the best hunters you can find in North America.
While these dogs are really sweet, they are also not easy to handle. If you have never had a dog before, you’re better off choosing a different breed. They need lots of attention, and they make weeping noises all the time, so they’re not good for apartments either.
10. Coton de Tulear
If you want a tiny dog that will live with you for a very long time, look no further than the Coton de Tulear. They are one of the most charming breeds you’ll ever find, and it will take seconds for you to fall in love with them.
This rare breed used to belong to aristocrats only. The rich folks loved the happy-go-luck nature of these dogs and kept them all to themselves. The best thing about Coton de Tulear dogs is that they can live up to 19 years!
9. Chinook
Another breed that is native to North America is the Chinook. These adorable guys are the official dog of New Hampshire and are widely known for their adorable nature. Male Chinooks tend to grow much more than females, but they’re all cute in the same way.
These dogs are so rare that they once almost became a mere memory in history books. However, breeders managed to help the devoted and patient breed escape extinction. These guys are really smart and will easily learn new tricks, and they’re great to have around kids.
8. Otterhound
When they first came into existence, Otterhounds had the sole purpose of hunting, well, otters. They have a waterproof coating, so they can easily hunt in rivers. While they’re not hunters anymore, they make great companions if you want a swimming buddy.
These big guys are really easygoing in terms of temperament, but they do love getting rowdy every once in a while. Otterhounds are amiable and won’t act reserved when meeting strangers, which means you can have your friends over without worrying about your dog’s behavior.
7. Norwegian Lundehund
If you’re looking for a medium-sized athletic dog, you should definitely adopt a Norwegian Lundehund. Like many dogs on this list, these guys initially had the purpose of hunting other animals back in the day. But don’t worry — this breed is pretty friendly.
The one thing to keep in mind before adopting a Norwegian Lundehund is that they’re really athletic. They love running and literally need exercise on a daily basis. If you’re not willing to take your dog to the park every single day, you’re better off without one of these guys.
6. Harrier
The Harrier is yet another breed that resembles Beagles. But unlike the Otterhound, Harriers had the purpose of hunting hares, which explains the name. These dogs are easily one of the friendliest out there, but they certainly need some proper training to get there.
Once again, it’s important for us to highlight that these dogs are really active, so they need constant exercise. If you’re not an athletic person, but you want a Harrier, you should find a dogsitter that can take your dog to the park for you.
5. Cesky Terrier
When you take a look at this next dog, you will find it hard to believe that they’re one of the best hunters out there. After all, how many hunters are only 13 inches tall? Well, despite their stature, these dogs can hunt.
The Cesky Terrier only came to America in the late ’80s, but they were already popular in Europe long before that. These dogs are friendly and playful, which makes them perfect for a household with a large family. They’ll get along with kids and other pets, and you can also train them to have good manners.
4. Canaan Dog
For some reason, it’s kind of hard to imagine that some dog breeds have existed for thousands of years. Perhaps it’s because we never see dogs in old portraits… Well, one breed that should’ve been included in those paintings was the Canaan Dog.
These beautiful dogs are always alert, as you can tell by their standing ears. They’re confident and vigilant dogs, but they also need a lot of activity. If you like running or hiking, these dogs will be the best companion you could ask for.
3. Afghan Hound
This dog is the Farah Fawcett of the dog world, thanks to its beautiful, silky, long hair. We bet “Cruella” would be obsessed if she ever chanced upon it! Afghan Hounds are recognized as one of the world’s oldest dog breeds and are originally from the mountains of Afghanistan.
Aside from their unique beauty, they are also quite fast, which makes them a popular choice for show dogs. Like the one pictured here, most of them have black masks and require a lot of grooming to maintain their coats. They’re also playful but don’t get along well with smaller animals.
2. English Foxhound
We cannot talk about rare breeds and not mention the English Foxhound. According to some, these dogs are the rarest breed in England, and they’re also the top breed. The only problem is that these dogs are so into hunting that they don’t want to live with humans.
In case you want to welcome an English Foxhound into your home, you better be ready to take it running or hiking. On top of that, you need to have lots of space on your property, or else your dog won’t be very happy.
1. Finnish Spitz
One of the oldest breeds in the world, the Finnish Spitz will remind you of a fox thanks to its color and facial features. However, these dogs are actually related to one of the oldest wolves to walk this planet. But don’t be frightened; the Finnish Spitz is friendly and good-natured.
If you have kids at home, you can rest assured that they will get along with this dog. They’re very patient with the kids, and they get along pretty well with other pets. While they’re friendly with the family, they will bark if a stranger comes around.
