Think you know all there is to know about Labradors, collies, and German shepherds? Think again! Though all breeds are special, there are even more special – super-rare – versions of certain breeds that will blow your mind with their beautiful, unique features. From soft, silver coats to speckles and spots, these canines are truly one of a kind.
9 Rare Versions of Common Dog Breeds
- Lilac Border Collie
- Harlequin Great Dane
- Red Fox Labrador
- Brindle Greyhound
- Agouti Husky
- Panda German Shepherd
- Black Wheaten Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Lemon Dalmatian
- Merle Cocker Spaniels
Lilac Border Collie
Always well-regarded for their stunning intelligence and affectionate nature, border collies sport beautiful coats, typically in black and white. The “lilac” border collie is rarest of all.
Harlequin Great Dane
Known as elegant, gentle giants, Great Danes deserve their stellar reputations. The “harlequin” version is covered in a lovely patchwork pattern that makes them stand out for more than just their height (and charm).
Red Fox Labrador
Who doesn’t love a Lab? And it’s especially hard to resist one with a rare reddish coat. These pups are actually just a darker shade of yellow (not brown!), and the color only gets darker and more dramatic as they age.
Brindle Greyhound
Gentle and independent by nature, greyhounds are only made more elegant by a beautiful brindle coat. This coloring is far less common than others for the breed, and stands out at the dog park.
Agouti Husky
What makes Husky coloring even more dramatic? The Agouti Husky has unique coloring that extends far down the legs, with faces that are much darker than normal. Even the lighter markings are cream (not bright white), and the tail is often black-tipped.
Panda German Shepherd
The super-rare black, white and tan coloring of the Panda German shepherd gives this dog an enchanting look that’s very sought-after (but hard to find!).
Black Rhodesian Ridgeback
Nothing beats the magnificent Mohawk of the dignified Rhodesian Ridgeback – unless you want to take it to the next level with a gorgeous black coat. What a looker!
Lemon Dalmatian
Dalmatians make wonderful lifelong friends – whether they’re black, brown, blue, brindle or lemon (one of our favorites). Just make sure to give these willful, smart pups plenty of training and affection.
Merle Cocker Spaniels
There are very few things that can make a Cocker Spaniel even more adorable – but it’s possible that this extraordinary Merle coloring (and those baby blues!) can do just that. This coat is still rare, but quickly growing in popularity.