Have you ever seen a pooch without hair? Or how about a pup covered in wooly dreadlocks for its coat? Short legs, long legs, no tail, hairless… Canines come in different types, and we’ll introduce you to some of the most unique breeds on the planet today!
Long and low Dandie Dinmont Terriers are oddly shaped with their stubby legs, long bodies, and profuse amount of hair on the head. Speaking of hair, that’s something that the Puli has a ton of, a pup with a massive amount of dreadlocks all over its body. Then, we have the Xoloitzcuintli, which is the opposite of the other two pups as it is absolutely hairless.
If you thought you’ve seen every dog breed, think again. These 32 unique dog breeds will amaze you and make you want to bring one of these limited edition pets to your home!
32. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Silky, long, and low, Dandie Dinmont Terrier are a rare-looking dog breed. They have tiny legs and a long body covered in satin-like hair. Surprisingly, these canines don’t shed, which is a great perk to owning this dog if you suffer from allergies.
Calm and pleasant, these Terriers are always ready to make friends. They are also generally healthy, which gives them a decent lifespan.
31. Puli
Wooly dreadlocks, heavy build, and a face completely covered with hair – that’s a Puli in a nutshell. These mop head-looking pups have one of the most unique-looking coats that only an expert can groom perfectly.
While the Puli dogs may seem too lax and laid-back, they are actually quite agile. They need moderate exercise each day to keep them from getting bored.
30. Peruvian Inca Orchid
Available in three different sizes, the Peruvian Inca Orchid can easily remind one of a Whippet or a Greyhound except these Peruvians are a tad smaller in comparison. They come in various colors and two types of coats, so there is more variety to these canines.
But watch out – these pups are a little temperamental. They are best suited to experienced owners, preferably without any young kids.
29. Norwegian Lundehund
These hard working puffin hunters in Scandinavia are one of the most unique dog breeds when it comes to their extraordinary anatomical features. Norwegian Lundehunds have elastic necks, which helps them spot birds more efficiently.
But wait, there’s more! These pups also have 6 toes, which is another extraordinary thing about them. Now, that’s something you don’t see each day!
28. Caucasian Shepherd
This all-weather pooch is a responsible guard dog for livestock whether it’s raining, snowing, or scorching hot. Even with the thick fur, the Caucasian Shepherd can handle the toughest of weather without any issue.
They are unique because of their physical appearance, as they easily look like a giant teddy bear. Well, make that a massive teddy at over 170 lbs!
27. Kuvasz
The Kuvasz is a white, fluffy, massive pooch with Hungarian roots. It’s not everyday that you see an all-white giant pup, so that’s one thing unique about this big boy/gal.
Historically bred as a watchdog, Kuvasz are hardworking fellows that take their jobs seriously. Because of this, they can easily ward off predators and intruders with their enormous build. Training these dogs can also be a bit tricky because of their inherent stubbornness and temperamental nature.
26. Sloughi
A native of the African continent, the Sloughi feels most at home in the desert. With its short hair and lean body, it’s absolutely easy for this pup to adapt in the most unforgiving desert climate.
These canines are noted for their distinct look – large eyes, long limbs, elongated muzzle, and floppy ears. Put these features together, and you’ve got an elegant and good-looking Arabian Greyhound!
25. Otterhound
Shaggy and rough-looking, the Otterhound is another unique dog breed that’s got an enormous amount of hair on its face. They are also pretty big at 115 lbs but an amazing swimmer nonetheless.
Otterhounds are gentle and mellow creatures. They can be very sensitive, which is why positive reinforcement is a must to train them properly.
24. Kai Ken
The Kai Ken is a rare pooch even in its origin country, Japan. They have brindle-patterned coats in black and brown and tall, erect ears. They look a little like tiny cubs but watch out – these bear-like cuties are fierce to their prey.
An extraordinary feature of this canine is its ability to climb trees and forge waters. Squirrels, chipmunks, and any small animal it wants to chase is no escape from its superb tracking and climbing ability.
23. Thai Ridgeback
Muscular and powerful, the Thai Ridgeback is an all-around pup that excels as a watchdog, hunting dog, and companion pooch. They have short and sheer coats in gray, brown, or silver with a unique “ridge-like” design along the spine.
If you’re an experienced owner, you should have no problem training a Thai Ridgeback despite its stubbornness. Firm and consistent training are all it takes to rein these muscle pups in.
22. Swedish Vallhund
Swedish Vallhunds look a bit like Corgis with their short legs, stocky bodies, and tailless behinds. Some may have a bobtail or a full curled tail but it’s more typical to find ones without any tail.
Bred to herd, track, and do sports, these pups are zippy and always game for activities. With these fun canines, there’s definitely no dull moment.
21. Cesky Terrier
Cesky Terriers are so unique that there are only about 600 of this breed in the United States, according to the AKC. They take their roots from the Sealyham and Scottish Terriers but with their own extraordinary looks.
What’s strikingly extraordinary about Ceskys is their profuse amount of hair on the head. It almost looks like an overgrown fringe that partly covers their eyes, not to mention the thick mustache-looking facial hair.
20. Stabyhoun
A nativ of the Netherlands, the Stabyhoun has a squarish, bulky head and a muscular body. They have dense and fluffy coats in black and white with some spots or random patterns on the legs.
They may be massive but they never pass up an opportunity to swim. In fact, these Dutch retrievers are excellent swimmers and can retrieve any game that lands in the water.
19. Azawakh
When it comes to aerodynamics, the Azawakh has definitely gotten it all right. These pups are lean and slender, giving them an edge when it comes to speed and agility.
Plus, they have very short coats, so there’s literally nothing that weighs them down. Maintenance is also a breeze with these pups because you don’t have to worry about shedding or grooming on a daily basis.
18. Karelian Bear Dog
In their native home, Finland, the Karelian Bear Dog may not be one of the most unique dog breeds. But when it comes to the rest of the world, they are indeed extraordinary and special. Their superb strength, fearlessness, and agility make them outstanding watch dogs and hunting dogs.
At first glance, they do look like a Border Collie with their black and white coats. But they are leaner and more slender despite the fluff their coat adds to their weight.
17. Chinook
When you think of sledding dogs, the first thing that comes to mind is a Siberian Husky. But before these Huskies dominated this category, there was the Chinooks. Unfortunately, they were close to extinction in the 1960s and have become rare since then.
They are great at sled pulling and other physical jobs. But one thing they are not great at – guarding. Chinooks see everyone as a friend, for better or worse.
16. Czechoslovakian Vlcak
If you’ve always dreamed of owning a wolf but wouldn’t dare to because of their primal instincts, then the Czechoslovakian Vlcak Is a great alternative. Everything about their features spells out W-O-L-F – erect ears, dense coat, and muzzle. This goes without saying that these pups are a beauty.
Training them can be tricky, however. They can really test your patience, so give yourself some credit and leave the training to an expert.
15. New Guinea Singing Dog
Physically, there’s nothing very unique-looking about the New Guinea Singing Dog. They look like a leaner version of a Shiba Inu with its small, dark eyes and erect ears. But when it opens its mouth to speak, that’s what makes a difference between the two.
These canines are known for their unique vocalization. It’s not a singing sound, yet it’s melodious and catchy enough that earns its name.
14. Catahoula Leopard Dog
Combine the patterned coat with its color-rich eyes, and you’ve got the enchanting Catahoula Leopard Dog. These canines have a rare lineage that’s a combination of Bloodhounds, Mastiffs, and wolf-like dogs. No wonder they look absolutely unique!
Owning one should be a great experience as these are affectionate and energetic pups. Be prepared for some challenge when training them, though, as they can be a bit stubborn.
13. Telomian
A gorgeous canine of Malaysian background, the Telomian is another rare dog breed that’s been around for hundreds of years. They are only some of the few canines who can climb at great heights despite their relatively heavy build.
Telomians were bred to catch vermin, which explains their strong prey drive. But when not busy catching their prey, these pups are most content being by your side.gr
12. Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiffs have an enormous amount of fur on them. These giant fluffballs look like a massive lion with their thick mane that even covers their eyes.
Tibetan Mastiffs carry themselves proudly and elegantly. They are watchful and aloof, which means you should never have any issue leaving them alone in the house for a few hours.
11. Catalburun
A Turkish dog breed, the Catalburun is one of the most unique dog breeds in terms of appearance. They have a double nose or what appears like a split between two nostrils. They also have floppy ears that hang from either side of their head.
Catalburun dogs are great hunting companions. They are also relatively easy to train because of their inherent intelligence and eagerness to please their owners.
10. Mudi
The Mudi may be small but this Hungarian farm pooch is one-of-a-kind. You don’t see a lot of modest-sized dogs in search-and-rescue jobs, but the Mudi does it in flying colors.
Unfortunately, this dog breed is dwindling in numbers and slowly becoming close to extinction. With only a few thousand worldwide, this is one rare and unique canine without a doubt.
9. Russian Toy
Another small pup that makes its way in our list of most unique dog breeds is the Russian Toy. As the name implies, it’s a toy dog that roughly weighs about 6.5 lbs.
They look a bit like Chihuahuas but without the apple-shaped head. Or a Papillon with butterfly-like ears.Their coats are either short and smooth or long and fluffy.
8. Bedlington Terrier
Resembling a lamb’s cottony soft and curly coat, the Bedlington Terrier is one extraordinary canine without a doubt. They appear somewhat feeble but they are surprisingly athletic and agile.
As they were traditionally bred to catch vermin, Bedlingtons are excellent hunters. They also capitalize on their endurance and speed, which are made possible by their lean and slender bodies.
7. Hovawart
Fluffy and muscular, the Hovawart is a German dog that excels in various tasks such as search and rescue, tracking, and guarding. They look a tad like a Golden Retriever but just a little smaller.
Hovawarts can be high maintenance dogs because of their abundant coats. Yet, they are relatively easy to train as these are obedient canines that want nothing but to please their owners.
6. Curly Coated Retriever
A descendant of the English Water Spaniel and the Irish Setter, the Curly Coated Retriever looks like a Poodle except more massive and muscular. Their curly coats are waterproof, which protect them from getting cold when swimming in frigid waters.
Generally, Curly Coated Retrievers are easy-going creatures. They are mellow and can get along well with most people.
5. Lagotto Romagnolo
Another curly pooch with a penchant for hunting is the Lagotto Romagnolo. Appearance-wise, it may not seem quite unique as it resembles a giant Poodle or a Curly-Coated Retriever. However, it is Lagotto’s extraordinary skill that makes it rather unique.
This pup has an impeccable sense of smell. Let them out into the countryside, and it can track where those expensive truffles are hiding. When not out sniffing and truffle hunting, however, it’s content with lazing around in the house with their favorite human.
4. Schapendoes
The Schapendoes or Dutch sheepdog are quite rare that not a lot of them are found in the United States. In fact, they almost reached extinction when Border Collies were introduced in their home country, the Netherlands.
They are unique-looking creatures with thick, and long wiry hair covering their bodies. Imagine a Puli but with straighter hair instead of dreadlocks, and that’s what Schapendoes are like.
3. Xoloitzcuintli
There are so many unique things about the Xoloitzcuintli, and we can start with the name. These pups are quite ancient with their origin dating back to 3,000 years ago. In fact, the ancient Aztecs regarded these dogs as sacred.
They are hairless dogs while other varieties have some fur but very short. Xoloitzcuintlis are also quite affectionate and mellow, making them suitable for first-time owners.
2. Harrier
At first glance, you might mistake this pooch for a Beagle but with a more toned bod. Harriers do look like a Beagle but they’re leaner like an English Foxhound. And why wouldn’t they be in such a great shape when these fellows love to play and exercise!
Harriers are great hunting companions because of their agility and endurance. They are always up for chasing their prey and there’s simply no stopping them.
1. Finnish Spitz
They look like a fox but definitely 100% domesticated pup – that’s the Finnish Spitz for you! These canines have an adorable tail that curves sharply and a reddish thick coat. But what’s unique about it goes beyond what meets the eye…
Finnish Spitz dogs are amazing yodellers! They yodel and bark at the sight of squirrels and birds, so if you don’t mind the yapping and high energy of a pup, they’re a perfect match for you.
Related Questions
What Makes A Dog Unique? There are many things that make a dog unique or rare. For instance, the lack of a tail, exotic coat patterns, the absence of hair, and an extraordinary coat texture or style add to the uniqueness of a pup. These are qualities that you don’t normally find in most canines yet they exist in some breeds, which also tend to be not as popular as common ones.
What Do Dogs Have In Common With Humans? Dogs are like humans in many ways – they are emotional, intelligent, and with diverse personalities. Moreover, dogs tend to have their personal preferences such as with food, toys, and activities, which are also typical among humans.
What Is The Strangest Dog Breed? There are a few rare and rather strange-looking dogs out there which include the Ewok-looking Brussels Griffon, the hairless Xoloitscuintli, the mop head-like Puli, split-nosed Catalburun, and the part hairless and part wispy-haired Chinese Crested.
