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The Rarest Dog Breeds

The American Kennel Club currently recognizes 200 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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The American Kennel Club currently recognizes 200 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.

group of foxhounds running

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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

Norwegian Lundehund dog

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2. NORWEGIAN LUNDEHUND

This breed is a friendly and athletic companion. They are very sensitive and incredibly clever.

Sloughi dog

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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.

Azawakh dog

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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.

Photo Vera Reva/Shutterstock

8. SUSSEX SPANIEL

Sussex Spaniels are affectionate, loyal, and even-tempered. They are highly adaptable and have great long-term memory.

Cesky terrier dog

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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.

Photo Evgeniya Shikhaleeva/Bigstock

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.

Photo rodimovpavel/Bigstock

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.

Photo WildMedia/Bigstock

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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