- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
From pedigreed show dogs to scrappy rescue dogs with no clear lineage, all dogs are unique—but there’s no denying that some dogs are rarer than others. Some of the rarest dog breeds have existed for thousands of years, while others originated in the 20th century.
You can define “rare” in a lot of different ways, and plenty of rare dogs exist around the world. We based our list of the 25 rarest dog breeds on data from a recent Rover survey of dog parents in the United States.
That said, the American Kennel Club (AKC) doesn’t officially recognize all of the breeds on our list. The AKC has several standards a breed must meet before earning official recognition:
- The breed must have a clear following. Typically, this means a National Breed Club with at least 100 active members.
- The AKC has to review and approve the club’s constitution, by-laws, and breed standard, and AKC Field Staff have to conduct observations of the breed.
- The breed must have a population in the U.S. of at least 300 dogs and a three-generation pedigree. All dogs in the pedigree have to be the same breed.
- The breed must live in at least 20 different states across the country.
As of 2022, the AKC recognizes 200 dog breeds—some of which you’ll find on the list below!
1. Saluki
- Origin: Ancient Middle East
- Height: Males are generally 23 to 28 inches, though females tend to be shorter.
- Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 17 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $2,000 to $4,000
- Ideal Home: Active people who have a very large, fully-fenced yard.
The Saluki, called the “Royal Dog of Egypt,” is known for its remarkable speed and grace. The breed originated around 6,000 BCE and was treasured by royalty for their skill with hunting, particularly gazelles. Today, people around the world cherish the Saluki for their elegance and athleticism.
2. Sakhalin Husky
- Origin: Sakhalin Island, Russia
- Height: Up to 26 inches
- Weight: Up to 88 pounds
- Life Expectancy: Unknown due to extreme rarity
- Population in the U.S.: Extremely rare
- Average Cost: Information unavailable due to extreme rarity
- Ideal Home: Environments with cold climates and experienced dog parents
The Sakhalin Husky comes from Sakhalin Island. Only a handful of these dogs remain on Sakhalin Island and in the U.S. The AKC doesn’t currently recognize the breed, which teeters on the edge of extinction. However, sled enthusiasts believe they can resurrect these loyal, strong, and devoted sled dogs.
3. Portuguese Podengo
- Origin: Portugal
- Height: 16-22 inches (medium), 22-28 inches (large)
- Weight: 35-44 pounds (medium), 44-66 pounds (large)
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 15 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,500 to $2,500
- Ideal Home: Active people with a love for outdoor activities
The Portuguese Podengo can have a smooth or wiry coat and comes in two different sizes, with each size tailored to a specific hunting role. The smaller dogs hunt rabbits, while their larger counterparts hunt deer and boar. Their keen senses and adaptability have made them valuable assets for generations of hunters, though they’re relatively rare in the U.S.
4. Welsh Springer Spaniel
- Origin: Wales
- Height: 17 to 19 inches
- Weight: 35 to 55 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,000 to $1,500
- Ideal Home: Active people who have plenty of time to provide physical exercise and mental stimulation
You’ll likely recognize the Welsh Springer Spaniel by its striking red and white coat and boundless energy. Though relatively rare, these bird-hunting dogs make loyal companions for people who can provide the physical and mental stimulation they crave.
5. Belgian Shepherd Dog
- Origin: Belgium
- Height: 22 to 26 inches
- Weight: 50 to 60 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,000 to $2,500
- Ideal Home: Active households who can devote time to training and physical and mental engagement
The Belgian Shepherd Dog, also called Belgian Sheepdog or Groenendael, is known for its intelligence and stunning black coat. Though originally bred as herding and working dogs, they excel in a range of jobs but remain fairly rare due to their high needs for exercise and mental stimulation. They make devoted companions for the right person.
6. Manchester Terrier
- Origin: England
- Height: 15 to 16 inches
- Weight: 12 to 22 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 15 to 17 years
- Population in the U.S.: Rare
- Average Cost: $600 to $1,200
- Ideal Home: People with active lifestyles
Recognized as the oldest breed of terrier, this black and tan dog was originally bred to kill rats. Though still just as fast and powerful, today the Manchester Terrier is more often a companion. These enthusiastic and loyal dogs adapt well to life in the city and in the country, though they have plenty of energy and need a fair amount of exercise.
7. Bedlington Terrier
- Origin: Northumberland, England
- Height: 15 to 17.5 inches
- Weight: 17 to 23 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 11 to 16 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,200 to $2,000
- Ideal Home: Active people with fenced yards
The Bedlington Terrier is a low-shedding dog with a unique lamb-like appearance. Originally bred as workers and hunters, these dogs need a good amount of exercise and make loyal and protective companions. They do tend to chase smaller pets and other animals, so you may want to keep this in mind when considering them as potential additions to your family.
8. American Hairless Terrier
- Origin: U.S.
- Height: 12 to 16 inches
- Weight: 12 to 18 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Population in the U.S.: Rare
- Average Cost: $800 to $1,200
- Ideal Home: Moderately active households seeking a hypoallergenic companion
The American Hairless Terrier originated in the U.S. in the 1970s as a natural variation of Rat Terriers. Their hairless coat may make them more ideal for people allergic to dog hair. These intelligent dogs are affectionate and fairly easy to care for, making them great family companions.
9. Canary Mastiff
- Origin: Canary Islands, Spain
- Height: 22 to 26 inches
- Weight: 88 to 140 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 9 to 11 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,500 to $3,000
- Ideal Home: Experienced dog parents seeking a loyal and protective companion
Bred as home protectors and cattle dogs, the Canary Mastiff (Perro de Presa Canario) needs pet parents who can prioritize training and setting limitations. They make loyal guardians, but they need dedicated training and plenty of physical activity—in short, they’re not great apartment dogs, in part because of their large size! Some may also do best in single-dog households.
10. Treeing Tennessee Brindle
- Origin: U.S.
- Height: 16 to 24 inches
- Weight: 30 to 50 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: Information varies due to rarity
- Ideal Home: Active people or hunters seeking a dedicated companion
The Treeing Tennessee Brindle is a sturdy, intelligent dog with exceptional hunting abilities. These fast dogs can scent and tree a wide variety of game, and they have a unique and distinct brindle coat pattern. They’re affectionate, get along with children and other dogs, and make loyal companions as well as working dogs.
11. German Longhaired Pointer
- Origin: Germany
- Height: 23 to 28 inches
- Weight: 55 to 80 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
- Population in the U.S.: Rare
- Average Cost: $800 to $1,200
- Ideal Home: Outdoorsy people who enjoy various activities
This skilled hunting dog from Germany boasts a luxurious coat and a gentle nature. These energetic and intelligent dogs love people and make good companions, so long as they get plenty of stimulation and exercise.
12. Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog
- Origin: United States (Alapaha River region)
- Height: 18 to 24 inches
- Weight: 55 to 90 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 14 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,000 to $2,000
- Ideal Home: Experienced dog parents seeking a protective and affectionate companion
The Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog originated in the Alapaha River region in the U.S. This breed has a strong protective instinct and a rich history. Its rarity likely stems from targeted breeding for specific traits, like the ability to catch and hold wandering cattle and hogs. With early socialization and training, they make great family and companion dogs.
13. McNab Cattle Dog
- Origin: U.S.
- Height: 18 to 25 inches
- Weight: 40 to 75 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: Information varies due to rarity
- Ideal Home: Active people who have experience with herd dogs
The McNab Cattle Dog, or McNab, is a herding dog from northern California bred to herd sheep, cattle, and other farm animals. This intelligent and sensitive working dog has plenty of endurance—they can cover more than 100 miles a day herding! They make loyal companions but require plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
14. Shiloh Shepherd Dog
- Origin: U.S.
- Height: 26 to 32 inches
- Weight: 80 to 140 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 9 to 14 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,000 to $4,000
- Ideal Home: Active people seeking a gentle and protective companion
German Shepherd breeders in New York developed the Shiloh Shepherd as a calmer version of the breed without the hip problems that affect so many German Shepherds. They still need plenty of exercise, but they have less of a drive to work and make loyal and affectionate family dogs.
15. German Pinscher
- Origin: Germany
- Height: 17 to 20 inches
- Weight: 25 to 45 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,500 to $2,500
- Ideal Home: Active households seeking an intelligent and lively companion
You can think of German Pinschers as the “original Pinscher”—these energetic dogs led to the development of other Pinscher breeds, from Doberman to Miniature Pinscher. They’re strong, super smart, full of personality, and highly protective.
16. Gordon Setter
- Origin: Scotland
- Height: 23 to 27 inches
- Weight: 45 to 80 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 13 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $800 to $1,200
- Ideal Home: Outdoorsy people with plenty of time for exercise and mental stimulation
The Gordon Setter is the largest and heaviest type of setter. This striking breed is known for its elegant appearance and bird-hunting abilities. They make affectionate companions but need plenty of activity and exercise.
17. Russell Terrier
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Height: 10 to 12 inches
- Weight: 9 to 15 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $800 to $1,200
- Ideal Home: Very active households who love small, lively dogs
The Russell Terrier is a spirited breed closely related to the Jack Russell Terrier. They may be small, but they have plenty of drive—these compact dogs were originally bred to hunt foxes. Today, they’re known for affectionate nature, big personality, and boundless energy.
18. German Spitz
- Origin: Germany
- Height: 8 to 12 inches (Toy), 12 to 16 inches (Medium), 16 to 20 inches (Large)
- Weight: 10-11 pounds (Toy), 15-25 pounds (Medium), 30-50 pounds (Large)
- Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years
- Population in the U.S.: Rare
- Average Cost: $800 to $1,200
- Ideal Home: People seeking a lively and alert companion
The German Spitz comes in three sizes, making it easier to find one that’s just right for you. These dogs are less common in the U.S. Though intelligent and responsive to training, they can be fairly independent and may show less affection than some other breeds.
19. Tibetan Spaniel
- Origin: Tibet
- Height: 10 inches
- Weight: 9 to 15 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,000 to $2,000
- Ideal Home: People seeking a small and devoted dog
The Tibetan Spaniel has a royal history as a companion to Buddhist monks. These playful and affectionate family-friendly dogs enjoy relaxing at home as much as they do a good long walk.
20. Neapolitan Mastiff
- Origin: Italy
- Height: 24 to 31 inches
- Weight: 110 to 150 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 7 to 9 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,000 to $2,500
- Ideal Home: Experienced dog parents seeking a powerful and protective companion
You might recognize the Neapolitan Mastiff by its massive size and loose, wrinkled skin. These confident and protective dogs originated as estate guardians and (like all dogs!) need regular, patient training. As they’re very large and overheat easily, they shouldn’t run for long or play too hard.
21. Patterdale Terrier
- Origin: United Kingdom
- Height: 10 to 15 inches
- Weight: 12 to 20 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
- Population in the U.S.: Rare
- Average Cost: $500 to $1,000
- Ideal Home: Active households who have a love for terrier energy
These tenacious and spirited hunting dogs are tough and compact. They’re working dogs with a high prey drive, so they make not make ideal family pets.
22. Akbash Dog
- Origin: Turkey
- Height: 28 to 34 inches
- Weight: 90 to 120 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,000 to $2,000
- Ideal Home: Experienced dog parents seeking a protective working dog
The Akbash Dog is a white dog with a gentle nature and strong guardian instincts. These dogs were bred to protect sheep from wolves. Their loyal but independent nature makes them excellent farm and working dogs but less ideal as a family pet.
23. Australian Silky Terrier
- Origin: Australia
- Height: 9 to 10 inches
- Weight: Around 10 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $800 to $1,200
- Ideal Home: People seeking a lively and affectionate small dog
The small and spunky Australian Silky Terrier combines the spunk of a terrier with the elegance of a toy breed. These friendly and affectionate dogs have a long, silky coat that requires frequent grooming. They’re playful and energetic and need more exercise than other toy breeds.
24. Spinone Italiano
- Origin: Italy
- Height: 22 to 27 inches
- Weight: 61 to 85 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,000 to $2,500
- Ideal Home: Active people who enjoy outdoor activities
The Spinone Italiano is a versatile dog with a gentle nature. Despite their history as hunting dogs, they make great companions and therapy dogs, but they do need plenty of exercise and mental enrichment!
25. Leonberger
- Origin: Germany
- Height: 25.5 to 31.5 inches
- Weight: 90 to 170 pounds
- Life Expectancy: 7 years
- Population in the U.S.: Moderately rare
- Average Cost: $1,500 to $2,500
- Ideal Home: Families seeking a large and gentle companion
The Leonberger is a large and majestic breed with a friendly nature. These lion-like dogs are gentle but very protective, which makes them excellent working and guard dogs. They require plenty of vigorous exercise, like hiking or running alongside your bike! You’ll also need to spend plenty of time grooming their double coats.
Takeaway
Rare dogs have plenty to offer, from their historical significance to special skills and abilities. But if you’re considering adding one of these rare breeds to your family, keep in mind that many of them were bred for specific jobs and may need especially careful and dedicated training.
Rare also often means expensive—acquiring a rare dog can cost anywhere from $1,000-$10,000, depending on their rarity, lineage, and location.
At the end of the day, rare dogs aren’t for every family—but of course, a dog doesn’t have to be rare or unusual to be special! No two dogs are alike, after all. Plus, your rescue dog’s unique genetic background may make them truly one of a kind!