The Rarest Dog Breeds
The American Kennel Club currently recognizes 201 breeds. Of those, these 15 are the least common. We asked breed expert and AKC Executive Secretary Gina DiNardo to outline the unique qualities of these rare dogs.
The American Kennel Club currently recognizes 201 breeds. Of those, these 15 are the least common. We asked breed expert and AKC Executive Secretary Gina DiNardo to outline the unique qualities of these rare dogs.
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1. ENGLISH FOXHOUND
This affectionate and friendly breed is patient with children and other dogs. They are very playful and vocal
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2. NORWEGIAN LUNDEHUND
This breed is a friendly and athletic companion. They are very sensitive and incredibly clever.
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3. SLOUGHI
Sloughis are gentle with their loved ones and have high energy levels, despite being quiet in their home. This breed is highly intelligent and needs ample exercise.
Photo Angie Kerins/American Kennel Club
4. AMERICAN FOXHOUND
This breed is low-maintenance and gets on well with children, other dogs, and animals. They need a lot of exercise.
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5. BELGIAN LAEKENOIS 
This breed is protective of their family. They are observant yet friendly and highly trainable. They require an abundance of attention and exercise.
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6. AZAWAKH
The Azawakh is an elegant breed. They excel as a companion and guardian, as they are deeply affectionate. They are highly intelligent and fiercely independent.
Photo Thomas Pitera/American Kennel Club
7. HARRIER
Harriers are family dogs. They are great with young children and with other dogs. They are vocal and require an ample amount of exercise every day.
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8. SUSSEX SPANIEL
Sussex Spaniels are affectionate, loyal, and even-tempered. They are highly adaptable and have great long-term memory.
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9. CESKY TERRIER
These dogs are clever and adventurous. They are good watch dogs and are protective over their loved ones.
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10. PYRENEAN SHEPHERD
These dogs are very playful with high energy levels. They are vigilant and easy to train, as they strive to please and are extremely connected to their owners.
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11. SKYE TERRIER
These dogs are great family dogs. They are easily adaptable and trainable. They need minimal exercise and will follow their owner’s lead in this respect.
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12. FINNISH SPITZ
Fearless hunting dogs, Finkies are excellent alert dogs that are affectionate with family. They are good with young children and have a lot of playful energy.
Photo Thomas Pitera/American Kennel Club
13. CANAAN DOG
These clever and confident dogs are incredibly active. They are docile with family and are very territorial.
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14. DANDIE DINMONT TERRIER
Dandies are alert and intelligent watchdogs that also enjoy cuddling with kids. They are highly trainable, incredibly independent, and courageous dogs.
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15. GRAND BASSET GRIFFON VENDÉEN
These French scent hounds are active and affectionate dogs that do not tire easily. They are friendly and very open to strangers.
This article originally appeared in the award-winning Modern Dog magazine. Subscribe today!
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