Nova Scotia duck tolling retrievers, or "tollers," are a medium-sized sporting breed originally bred as hunting companions. Learn more about the …
Have You Heard of These 10 Rare Dog Breeds?
How's this for a quiz? We give you 10 dog breeds low down on the American Kennel Club's most popular breed list, and you can see if you've ever heard of them. Then, you can learn more!
Photo: imagesvc.meredithcorp.io
Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever (No. 86)
If you can get past having to spout out this mouthful of a breed name, these dogs are excellent for hunting and families. They came in at No. 86 on the AKC's most popular dogs list in 2019.
Norwegian Elkhound (No. 93)
These Scandinavian dogs were companions of the Vikings, and now they're perfect partners for almost any activity you can think of.
A loyal family companion and an eager outdoor playmate, intelligent Norwegian elkhounds are an ancient dog breed that fits well into an active, …
Tibetan Terrier (no. 101)
Whoops, these terriers aren't actually terriers, but they sure are cuties.
Tibetan terriers, bred as companion dogs in ancient monasteries, were once a symbol of good luck. Today, these loving and affectionate pups make for …
Borzoi (No. 105)
The former aristocrats! They can run awful fast, too. (Pronounced BOR-zoy.)
Borzoi are former aristocratic Russian dogs who love to run and relax quietly at home. Previously known as the "Russian wolfhound," these sighthounds …
Schipperke (No. 106)
Don't let the "little black devil" nickname scare you off, these active little guys and girls will keep you entertained plenty.
Schipperkes are intelligent, playful dogs who love tons of attention and play well with children and other pets. Learn more about this lovable little …
Afghan Hound (No. 111)
If you want a dog with better hair than you—sorry, it's true—here's the best dog for ya.
Afghan hounds are aristocratic and loving dogs who can run up to 40 mph and require a serious grooming routine. Learn more about caring for an Afghan …
American Eskimo Dog (No. 120)
These small dogs are as spunky and active as they are fluffy and white. But still, they're far down on the AKC's list.
American Eskimo dogs are intelligent, energetic pups with fluffy white coats that are easily trainable and highly loyal to their owners. American …
Boerboel (No. 127)
This breed of big boys and girls, which can weigh up to 200 pounds. They were even called "lion dogs" because they could defend their people from the African big cats.
Boerboels are intelligent, loyal, and gentle protectors of their families. They can weigh up to 200 pounds. Learn more about living with …
Scottish Deerhound (No. 149)
These are some big and elegant sighthounds, and one even won the National Dog Show last year—so maybe you're familiar with this one.
A giant sighthound who used to hunt deer in the Scottish highlands, Scottish deerhounds these days are still rare but they instead prefer spending …
Plott Hound (No. 177)
This is a rare, but all-American breed is great for hunters, and they make extremely loyal companions, too.
Plott hounds are athletic, loyal hunting dogs who love the outdoors almost as much as they love their humans. Learn more about taking care of a Plott …
And a Bonus Breed You've Surely NEVER Heard Of...
LOL, just kidding.
Labrador retrievers, or Labs as many know them, are an ideal combination of friendly and active, making them one of the most beloved family pets. …