The Top 10 Most Unique Dog Breeds

Exotic and unique dog breeds are a lot of fun. Instead of having a dog that everyone else has, you can have something rare - something that will add variety to the dog park and complement your family in a different way than, say, a German Shepherd, Poodle, or some other typical pup.

If you're looking for something a little different for your next dog, consider these top ten unique dog breeds.

Unique Dog Breed #1: Schipperke

This relatively rare dog is native to Belgium. It has a curious personality and a unique, beautiful, black fur coat. They make fantastic companions, although it is worth noting that these dogs are prone to mischief. As such, you'll need to be a reasonably hands-on owner to ensure that these canine friends remain safe.

Tibetan Mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff also has a beautiful fur coat. It's soft, luscious, and majestic in appearance. Originally from China, this dog is remarkably intelligent, to its detriment. Because it is so bright, dogs from this breed want to make their own decisions (that alone makes this a unique dog breed!). So, expect trouble getting them to obey commands or walk off-leash. This breed requires dedication and patience, but it's a fantastic pet in the hands of the right owner.

Leonberger

The Leonberger is one of the unique dogs of the world, originating from Germany. Royalty in Europe all loved these pets in the 1800s because they were strong and imposing. They looked menacing to would-be intruders and attackers, making them great guard dogs.

While this is an excellent trait to have, these dogs are also 120 lbs and tend to think of themselves as the boss. You'll need strong training skills to keep these dogs in line.

Rare Unique Dog Breed: Icelandic Sheepdog

Icelandic Sheepdogs almost went extinct in the 1950s. As you might imagine, that makes them reasonably rare dogs today. These dogs are intelligent and work well with children. They are affectionate and sometimes suffer from separation anxiety. If you're looking for a friendly and loving rare dog, this one is a fantastic choice!

Bergamasco Sheepdog

The very definition of "unique," people will notice this dog at the park. People will probably wonder if the fur is natural and, yes, it is! As it grows, it weaves together, creating layers of felted hair. Historically, these dogs needed this level of fur to stay warm in the winter elements. Now, people get this exotic dog breed for its unique looks and friendly personality!

Cesky Terrier

Cesky Terrier has the distinctive honor of being the national dog of the Czech Republic. It has a unique appearance. However, despite its prominence there, it's not popular in the United States. Indeed, estimates suggest that there are fewer than 600 of these canines in the US. They love to play and make for fantastic companions. The fact that they're such a rare dog here in the US makes their allure that much greater!

Peruvian Inca Orchid

This hairless dog doesn't do very well outside, so you'll need to keep this one indoors. The reason for this is that it is bald. Its skin doesn't do well in the sun. If you do take the Orchid out for a walk, you'll have to use sunscreen. However, that makes it a unique dog breed because, well, most other types of dogs love to run around outside! If you'd prefer an indoors dog instead, the Peruvian Inca Orchid is the perfect unique dog breed for you!

Saluki

This breed is incredibly thin and lean. Most people would almost think it is underfed. However, that's Saluki's natural appearance. They needed to be this adept to hunt and find food. They were such good hunters that Egyptian Pharaohs used to mummify Salukis in honor of their prowess. If you're looking for an incredibly swift and agile unique dog breed, you should consider this one!

Bolognese

This dog derives its name from its origins in Bologna, Italy, not from the delicious meat sauce. This dog is low-key and mellow, making it perfect for families that don't have a lot of time to walk it. It also makes this breed reasonably good with children, although, like any pet, they'll need to get acclimated to your home. These dogs are very loving and incredibly cute. Their fur is beautiful!

Chinese Crested: Unique Dog Breed with an Equally Unique Appearance

Despite the name, this dog did not originate in China. It got its name when people mistakenly believed it came from China in the 18th century. Nowadays, scientists believe it came from Central America and came to America on trade ships. This dog has unique characteristics, including the fact that it comes in two varieties: hairless or powderpuff. If you have allergies, this almost hypoallergenic dog breed might be perfect for you!

Unique Dog Breeds Are Available

If you want something a little different than what most other people have, these unique dog breeds are the way to go. Each of these breeds had a characteristic, rarity, or appearance that made them unique in the dog world.

Given that these dogs are so unique, you may have some difficulty locating them in the US. With enough persistence, you'll find a shelter that has one, or you'll find a breeder from which you can buy one. Search for one of these unique dog breeds online and find a shelter that will let you give one of these adorable pups a new home!

How many dog breeds are there in the world?

The number of dog breeds in the world depends on who you ask. According to the American Kennel Club, there are 202 dog breeds. The Kennel Club has 211 dog breeds, and the Federation Cynologique Internationale recognizes 344.

What is the rarest dog in the world?

No breed is definitively the rarest in the world, but most people believe that the Fila Brasileiro could be the world's rarest dog breed.

Why are dogs so loving?

They've evolved alongside humans! Dogs and humans also emit the same "loving hormone," oxytocin, when they see each other. This chemical in the brain helps cement that loving bond between people and their furry best friends!

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