If you are the type of person that likes the unusual, a list of rare dog breeds can help you find a dog that is just right for you.
Buying a Rare Breed
The rarer a breed is, the more expensive it will be. You may also need to make special arrangements to transport your dog from a breeder since there may not be a breeder close to you. If this extra trouble is worth it to you to get a dog as unique as you are, you may want to take a look at some of the rare breeds of dogs listed below.
Remember, you should pay special attention to the seller's shipping policies, return policies and guarantees when you buy anything over the Internet. Always be sure that you understand exactly what you are getting, and read the fine print.
A List of Rare Dog Breeds
The following lists are sorted according to the size of the dog.
Small Rare Breeds
- Alaskan Klee Klei - This tiny dog looks much like a Malamute, but it's as small as a Chihuahua. Some of the smallest dogs in this breed are only 13 inches high.
- Biewer - This small German companion dog will weigh seven pounds or less at maturity.
- Bologenese - This tiny Italian dog will weigh less than ten pounds as an adult.
- Kooikerhondje - A companion animal from the Netherlands, this dog will reach only about 16 inches at most.
- Lowchen - Bred in France, this companion animal will weigh between 8 and 18 pounds at maturity.
Medium Sized Rare Breeds
- Boykin Spaniel - AKC recognized yet rare, this medium-sized gun dog will weigh about 30 to 40 pounds as an adult.
- Cirneco dell'Etna - A unique dog with a lean look similar to a Greyhound, the Cirneco dell'Etna will grow to about 18 to 26 pounds
- Dingo - The Dingo is a herding dog from Australia that can grow to about 22 inches high.
- Glen of Imaal Terrier - This medium sized terrier will reach about 35 pounds.
- Iceland Dog - Also recognized by the AKC, this herding dog will reach between 20 and 30 pounds when it is full grown.
- Lagotto Romagnolo - This Italian water dog is used for hunting ducks and other waterfowl. It will reach about 24 to 35 pounds.
Large Rare Dog Breeds
- Aidi - A dog that was bred in Morocco to herd sheep and goats, this dog weighs about 55 pounds.
- Akbash - Originally bred in Turkey, this livestock guard dog can reach 140 pounds.
- Anglo-Françaisese - This breed was developed in France and can reach up to 77 pounds.
- Belgian Laekenois - A large herding type dog that will reach weights of 60 pounds or more.
- Black Russian Terrier - This working dog from Russia will reach 85 pounds.
- Bluetick Coon Hound - This hunting dog is used in the United States and can grow as large as 80 pounds.
More About Rare Breeds
For a more complete list of rare dog breeds, and links to many of them, you can go to the Rare Breed Network. There you will find more information as well as information on breeders, and news about rare breeds.
Rare dog breeds can have unique characteristics or looks, but ultimately it will be the personality of the dog that endears it to its owner. Be sure to research the breed or breeds you are interested in before you actually buy one to ensure it is compatible with your lifestyle.
