Here’s A List Showing 30 Of The More Rare And Extraordinary Dog Breeds

Native to Peru, this dog is one of several hairless breeds. It is officially a part of the country’s cultural heritage. Usually raised as pets, Peruvian Inca Orchid Dogs radiate heat from their bodies and are great to cuddle with and stay warm. Affectionate and intelligent, they are very protective of the women and children of the family.

This Hungarian breed is well-known for its funny facial expressions. While they have been bred since the 17th century, official standards were only recorded in 1935. As a breed of sheepdog, they are equally good at gathering, driving, and keeping stock under control. While they may be a little too vocal at times, Pumis are also intelligent and lively.

Not only is the Estrela Mountain Dog a great herd-guarding dog, but it is a formidable opponent to any sort of prey it might face. It doesn’t need to be taught to protect children, as it does so instinctively to all little ones in the family. As the breed is known for its independent mind, it is important to train them from early on.

Though the Xoloitzcuintli is one of several hairless dog breeds, sometimes the same litter can include both hairless and coated pups. The name of the breed comes from Xolotl, the Aztec god of fire and lightning. There has been very little selective breeding in Mexico where the Xoloitzcuintli originates from, allowing them to retain their primitive temperament of high intelligence, high energy, and strong social skills.

Though believed to be bred as a barge dog for the canals of Belgium, the name can be translated both as “little captain” and “little shepherd,” depending on the region. While in the 1880s Schipperkes were seen on barges and small boats, given their lineage that can be traced to a shepherd dog called the Leauvenaar, it is safe to assume that initially they were intended to guard flocks.

Basenji originally come from Congo, a country on the African continent. Alongside their distinct appearance, they also have several interesting traits that are not very common among other breeds. For example, Basenjis rarely bark, preferring to make a weird yodeling sound. Another thing is that the females can only reproduce once a year.

Swedish Vallhunds hail back to the 8th or 9th century when they were bred to herd and drove cows. In 1942, the breed was on the brink of extinction, but careful and patient work combined with publicity brought them back. Short legs help the Swedish Vallhund stay closer to the ground and nip at the ankles of any misbehaving cow. Today it is considered the national dog of Sweden.

Meet the national dog of Madagascar. The Coton de Tulear, named after a city, is more of a cloud than a hunting dog. It has been the companion of Merina, the ruling tribe of Madagascar, for a long time, earning the title of the Royal Dog of Madagascar.

Remember Prince Eric and his dog Max from The Little Mermaid? Max was an Old English Sheepdog, or, as they are also called, a bobtail. They are very chill and fun to have around. Their old habits are strong though, so an Old English Sheepdog may try to herd children by bumping them gently. But then, you can use that time to go get yourself a cuppa.