The rarest dog breeds in the world are pretty hard to come by. While some rare breeds are as recognizable as the most popular breeds, you may not have even heard of others.
"A rare dog breed is hard to come by, which can make finding and purchasing one challenging, as well as more expensive," says vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan.
If you are considering purchasing a rare dog breed, there are a few things to consider. According to Dr MacMillan, rare breeds can be more prone to inherited health issues due to a lack of gene pool available. She also recommends purchasing pet insurance to help offset the cost of any possible health problems.
Rarest dog breeds
1. Norwegian Lundehund
Dating back to the Ice Age, the Norwegian Lundehund is classed as one of the oldest dog breeds – as well as the rarest – and for good reason. This dog was bred to scale rocks, slippery crags, and dig burrows to hunt puffins along coastal cliffs.
Due to this, it developed some unique characteristics, including six toes on each paw, the ability to crane its neck back to its spine, and fold its ears closed.
2. Azawakh
Resembling a greyhound or whippet in appearance, thanks to its tall, slim, and muscular stature, the rare Azawakh breed originates from West Africa and gets its name from the nearby Azawagh Valley.
Originally used as a hunting dog for small game, these canines have a fiercely loyal bond to their human companions.
3. Otterhound
Despite their ability to hunt otters like no other (thanks to their webbed feet and super sensitive noses), Otterhounds are one of the rarest British dog breeds.
They’re playful, friendly, and easy to train, but after otter hunting became banned in the UK in 1981, these shaggy-haired dogs fell out of favor.
4. Skye Terrier
How cute is this little charmer? This terrier is a Scottish breed that dates back to the 14th century. Over the years, dwindling numbers of Skye Terriers have been blamed on little knowledge of the breed.
Others suggest that their long and luscious coat acts as a deterrent, as it looks like all those locks would take a lot of work (even though this isn't true).
5. Bergamasco Sheepdog
With their signature heavily matted coats, a Bergamasco Sheepdog has to be one of the most unique-looking dogs in this lineup. Calm, patient, and a true leader, for thousands of years, the Bergamasco Sheepdog is a herding breed used to herd and guard flocks in extreme cold climates.
In the 1960s, the Bergamasco teetered on the brink of extinction, and though they remain rare today, there is an International Bergamasco Sheepdog Association to help protect their interests.
6. Finnish Spitz
Red and gold in color, foxy-faced and coming with a swishing tail, Finnish spitz dogs are the national dogs of Finland and make for a great family pet because of their lively and loyal nature.
Although well known in the EU, ‘Finkies’, as they are known for short, are still considered a rare breed in the U.S. after they nearly became extinct in the 19th century.
7. Cesky Terrier
This fairly small, intelligent, and muscular terrier breed is the national dog of the Czech Republic.
Created by geneticist František Horák in the late 1940s, these full-of-energy short four-legged friends are a cross between a Scottish Terrier and a Sealyham Terrier. Most owners groom their Cesky to show off their strong torso, leaving long hair on the stomach and legs.
8. Polish Lowland Sheepdog
This watchdog hails from Poland and could quite easily make the list for the best guard dogs.
These dogs are alert and bond closely with their pet parents. Their real talents lie in being a great farm dog, as they were bred to be herding dogs.
9. Ibizan Hound
One of the fastest dog breeds around, the Ibizan Hound can run up to 40 mph! This is due to their lean and agile shape.
This sighthound was bred as a rabbit courser, but is also a sweet-natured dog that is great for families. They are also one of the highest jumping dogs – and can jump between five and six feet from standing.
10. Komondor
Komondor's long locks will stop you in your tracks. This gorgeous pooch was bred in Hungary as a herding dog and to watch over sheep.
This is a large-breed dog with males weighing in over 100lbs! But don't let their powerful frames fool you, they are very agile and light on their feet.
Read next: Rare cat breeds
Edited by Georgia Guerin and Megan Milstead.
Last updated in June 2025 by Alexis De Leaver.
