Least popular dog breeds in America

- 2023 popularity rank: #101

Borzois are tall dogs that can reach 32 inches from foot to shoulder and carry a greyhound-like build. This large but sleek breed was once used to locate wolves in Russia and has exceptional vision that enables them to spot prey quickly and from a distance. The dogs can be very affectionate but challenging to train.

- 2023 popularity rank: #102

A Belgian Tervuren won the first-ever AKC herding championship, which speaks volumes of this breed's work ethic and stamina. While they certainly make great pets, these animals are also superior working dogs that continue to work alongside the police in Belgium.

- 2023 popularity rank: #103

Japanese Chins hail from the palaces of Japan and China, where they even occasionally had servants of their own. Their pampered nature persists to this day, making them the perfect breed for someone looking for a companion dog with an appetite for being spoiled.

- 2023 popularity rank: #104

These little dogs hold 15 Westminster Kennel Club Bests in Show. They're poised, friendly, and smart champions that are eager to learn. Male wire fox terriers can reach about 15.5 inches in height and 18 pounds.

- 2023 popularity rank: #105

While the Norwich terrier's love of roaming makes it a bad idea to let this dog off-leash in a wide-open space, it would be a shame not to nurture its love of the outdoors. Norwich terriers tend to excel in agility training and competitions and create deep bonds with their humans—they prefer to be around their owners as much as possible and are likely to be unhappy if left alone all day.

- 2023 popularity rank: #106

The Gordon Setter is one of the largest of the setters. They're the perfect breed for an athletic and outdoorsy owner. Gordons are bold and confident, but also affectionate when spending time at home.

- 2023 popularity rank: #107

Miniature bull terriers stand between 10 and 14 inches tall and are known for their silly, energetic nature. These dogs make excellent companions but require diligent, patient training.

- 2023 popularity rank: #108

Tibetan terriers are highly intelligent and gentle but can be more reserved around unfamiliar people. The dogs have a long history of being symbols of good luck.

- 2023 popularity rank: #109

These French shepherd dogs have worked alongside the military and police force for years. They're calm, steady animals that were even used by the Germans to infiltrate British trenches during World War I.

- 2023 popularity rank: #110

Like most terriers, this tiny breed was originally used to catch rats. Their trainability and eagerness to learn have made them highly suitable for another profession: clown assistant. Their boundless energy and jumping skills have made toy fox terriers circus favorites.

- 2023 popularity rank: #111

These elegant dogs are extremely fast: The average Afghan hound can reach 40 mph, which puts it neck and neck with a purebred racehorse. And while they're docile, their deep hunting instincts mean these hounds ought to be watched around smaller animals.

- 2023 popularity rank: #112

The American hairless terrier is the first hairless breed to originate in the U.S. These hypoallergenic dogs make great family pets but require a few things most breeds don't: namely, sunscreen in the summer and a cozy sweater in the winter to keep warm.

- 2023 popularity rank: #113

Schipperke means "little captain" in Flemish, an appropriate name for a breed that loves the water. Historically, these pups were barge dogs that spent most of their time on the water with their owners. Shipperkes make great watchdogs, are highly active, and are extremely smart. These dogs would rather be with their owners 24/7 than crated or left alone all day.

- 2023 popularity rank: #114

These tiny, energetic champions are often seen in dog show competitions—not just for their shiny coats. The silky terrier is an accomplished herder, tracker, and fly-ball competitor. They're also smart and can begin training as young as eight weeks old.

- 2023 popularity rank: #115

The Norwegian Elkhound, known for its lush silver-gray coat, is one of Europe's oldest dogs. The breed sailed with the Vikings and you'll see the dogs featured in Norse art. Thanks to their agility, intelligence, trustworthiness, and sensitivity, they're great as companions or watchdogs.

- 2023 popularity rank: #116

The Welsh terrier is inseparable from the history of Wales. The breed was first mentioned roughly 1,000 years ago, but the pups didn't receive their name until 1855. Welsh terriers were originally bred to hunt foxes and rodents; today, these dogs are more likely to be found working the crowd at a dog show. These little dogs have a reputation for being calmer than other terriers.

- 2023 popularity rank: #117

The Parson Russell terrier was acknowledged in 2003 as a separate breed from the Jack Russell, although the two types of terriers are intrinsically linked. Both breeds are known for their energy and stamina and share a creator in the English clergyman John Russell.

- 2023 popularity rank: #118

One of the largest dog breeds in the world, Neapolitan mastiffs can clock in at up to 150 pounds. Because of their size, it's recommended these dogs start training early.

- 2023 popularity rank: #119

With a name that means "prickly," you would be forgiven for expecting these dogs to have a temperament. However, these hunting dogs earned the name due to their prickly coats—not their attitudes. The Spinone Italiano is highly social, calm, and sweet.

- 2023 popularity rank: #120

Arab tribesmen used to call Salukis a "gift from God." These sighthounds are true beauties who move quickly and are poised enough to have been considered the royal dogs of Egypt.

- 2023 popularity rank: #121

A favorite among Tibetan monks, the Tibetan spaniel often accompanied them on meditative walks or kept them warm in bed at night. Tibetan spaniels are also watchful and alert their owners when someone is approaching their territory, although that's about the extent of their assertiveness.

- 2023 popularity rank: #122

This breed may not have a name that rolls off the tongue, but it is nevertheless the oldest dog breed in the Americas. Xolos, or Mexican hairless dogs, do best in a pack (human or canine) and are known for being fiercely loyal to whichever human they bond with most.

- 2023 popularity rank: #123

Boerboels are large dogs that can weigh up to 200 pounds. They were bred to be watchdogs but have also been used for hunting large game in South Africa. Boerboels are extremely smart, territorial, and fiercely loyal.

- 2023 popularity rank: #124

Belgian sheepdogs served alongside soldiers in World War I and II. They are incredibly loyal dogs but also love the thrill of the chase. Belgian sheepdogs require a yard that's fenced in to keep them from scaring cyclists or runners.

- 2023 popularity rank: #125

Pointers never go out of style—countless paintings dating back to ancient Egypt depict this hunting breed. Pointers are great family dogs and are very trainable unless you get one that has a mind of its own.

- 2023 popularity rank: #126

In Victorian England, these spry dogs were known as the "gentleman's terrier." With proper training, the Manchester terrier is eager to learn and be a lifelong companion. These dogs top out at around 22 pounds and are extremely good-natured and playful, making them excellent family pets.

- 2023 popularity rank: #127

The quintessential race dogs, greyhounds are known for their speed and sweet disposition above all else. Surprisingly, these fast animals are also notoriously lazy; given a chance, they're perfectly happy to lounge around the house with their people.

- 2023 popularity rank: #128

This breed has only been in the U.S. since the 1980s. Before they made their way to the United States, black Russian terriers worked alongside the Soviet military. The breed is extremely loving, loyal, and hardworking but may not be a great fit as a first family pet as they can get overly excited fairly easily.

- 2023 popularity rank: #129

When it comes to trainability, American Eskimo dogs are at the top of the class. This is the first-known breed to have learned how to walk a tightrope, earning the dog a reputation as a circus dog in the 19th century. While you don't have to train your American Eskimo dog for the circus, the breed thrives on learning new things. The breed comes in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy.

- 2023 popularity rank: #130

A herding dog from Hungary, mudis were born to work. They hunt, search and rescue, shepherd livestock, and serve as watchdogs with alertness, intelligence, and a willing attitude. They're overall healthy dogs with low grooming needs who are trainable and playful with their human families, but they need to be constantly challenged and stimulated, or that energy goes into incessant barking and other bored dog behavior. Newly recognized by the AKC in 2022, they remain a rare breed: According to the AKC, there are only 450 mudis in the U.S.

- 2023 popularity rank: #131

Like all coonhounds, the black and tan is a working dog with a love of hunting raccoons, although the breed doesn't discriminate. This breed will happily take on large and small game—anything allowing the dog to put its superior sense of smell to use. They make excellent pets, are wonderful with children, and are perfectly happy relaxing alongside their humans on the couch. Just be mindful of any nearby neighbors—black and tan coonhounds are known for their loud and frequent barks.

- 2023 popularity rank: #132

Believed to be the oldest of Britain's spaniels, Welsh springer spaniels are easily identified by their lush red and white coats. Active and energetic, the dogs can be reserved with strangers but make great companions for children and other household pets.

- 2023 popularity rank: #133

Fox terriers are still working on gaining popularity in America. The feisty dogs have been members of the AKC since the late 1800s but are still hard to find stateside. This breed is very loving but extremely active and may be too rough and rowdy for households with small children.

- 2023 popularity rank: #134

The Norfolk terrier is one of the smallest dogs around—but they don't let their size fool you into thinking they're not fierce hunters. These dogs were bred to be ratters and run in packs for fox hunts. To curtail excessive barking, consistent training is a must. They tend to be good with other pets in the house and are great with kids, especially if they're all raised together.

- 2023 popularity rank: #135

These dogs were once used to herd reindeer. That's a big job, but these vocal pups were up for the task. Despite their working past, they make excellent and friendly companions.

- 2023 popularity rank: #136

Joyful, smart, loving, and devoted are all words commonly used to describe the barbet, a French hunting breed that has been around since at least the 16th century. With their shaggy, curly coats, these active, endlessly playful pups look like real-life Muppets. The breed clawed its way back from near-extinction and is now gaining popularity here and around the world.

- 2023 popularity rank: #137

The Irish terrier is a true farm dog. They love jobs and can do them all: hunt, guard flocks, and protect families. These terriers are such adept workers they were used as messengers and watchdogs during World War I.

- 2023 popularity rank: #138

A breed at least 1,000 years old, this corgi relative has a distinct feature—its tail. Many Swedish vallhunds are born without tails, while others have nubs or long tails.

- 2023 popularity rank: #139

These friendly dogs are happy to laze about during the day. But once they're on the hunt for a raccoon or following a scent, the bluetick coonhound is relentless. Males can reach 27 inches tall and 80 pounds. Lots of activities and exercise are essential for these dogs, who can become destructive and loud without enough exertion.

- 2023 popularity rank: #140

As its name implies, these dogs were developed by American settlers to hunt raccoons. The breed was instrumental in tracking the small mammals that kept pioneers fed while moving toward the West and South. Today, redbone coonhounds are most noteworthy as devoted family pets with exceedingly friendly, curious dispositions.

- 2023 popularity rank: #141

After years of being classed as miscellaneous by the AKC, the organization fully recognized the Russian toy dog as a toy dog breed in 2022. Not to be confused with the Chihuahua—which looks similar and has an equally confident and energetic temperament—the Russian toy has longer legs and a longer muzzle. Gentle yet rowdy, these pups are not known to be well-suited for homes with children and are prone to many skeletal and dental health issues.

- 2023 popularity rank: #142

The wirehaired vizsla is an incredibly trainable, disciplined, and gentle breed. Not only was this breed the first to become an American Kennel Club quintuple champion, but vizslas are also one of the Transportation Security Administration's preferred bomb-sniffing dogs. If you're considering this breed, be ready to give your dog plenty of exercise.

- 2023 popularity rank: #143

Bred by Tibetan nomads, this breed was often gifted to monks to guard their monasteries. It's important to socialize this mighty breed early. Tibetan mastiffs can be extremely territorial and wary of strangers—so if their owners want them to play well with others, they should get them used to a busy house early in life.

- 2023 popularity rank: #144

This breed is technically a herder, not a sporting dog. Nevertheless, Spanish water dogs are bright, easy to train, and quickly pick up on herd movements.

- 2023 popularity rank: #145

The history of the English toy spaniel is linked to English nobility. Queen Elizabeth had an English toy spaniel, and her doctor reportedly called it "the comforter." Their early popularity may have led to them becoming one of the first toy breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1886.

- 2023 popularity rank: #146

Iceland's only native dog breed is also one of the world's oldest. It is thought the medium-sized breed's origin can be traced back as far as 8000 B.C. These dogs have a long life span of up to 14 years and a curious, energetic temperament.

- 2023 popularity rank: #147

These dogs were primarily bred to be show dogs and pets. Their reputation as superior companions remains unchallenged, as they're docile, loyal, and happiest by their human's side.

- 2023 popularity rank: #148

Prince Albert and King Edward VII both loved Clumber spaniels. Thanks to such high-profile owners, the breed—the largest of the spaniels—became a favorite among the British upper class. Clumber spaniels are known for being extremely playful and easy to train.

- 2023 popularity rank: #149

Known best for their distinctive, sheep-like style, Bedlington terriers look like cuddly toys. Looks are deceiving in this case—these dogs are fast and hearty hunters who love to track rabbits.

- 2023 popularity rank: #150

Briards have a fascinating history as helper dogs. During World War I, they helped carry ammunition and served as lookouts while soldiers slept, as well as working alongside the Red Cross. The large herding dogs can reach 27 inches tall and 100 pounds and always want to be at the center of all family activities.

- 2023 popularity rank: #151

German pinschers were almost entirely wiped out during the wars. A man named Werner Jung kept the breed from going extinct and is responsible for the continued popularity of German pinschers in modern times. These smart, devoted dogs make terrific companions and stand stature-wise between miniature pinschers and Dobermans.

- 2023 popularity rank: #152

The Bracco Italiano (which translates to Italian Pointing Dog) is one of the oldest pointing breeds in the world, but the breed has only been in the United States since the 1990s. Despite being adaptable, intelligent, calm, and easy to train, the breed has yet to catch on stateside.

- 2023 popularity rank: #153

Lakeland terriers are increasingly rare. The small dogs once worked the Lake District in England, and they are notorious burrowers. The first president of the Lakeland Terrier Association claimed he had a Lakeland terrier that chased an otter into a 23-foot burrow (and had to be rescued as a result). Lakelands are mostly hypoallergenic and bond with their families despite being of a more independently minded breed.

- 2023 popularity rank: #154

The history of the bearded collie is intrinsically tied to farm life. These herding dogs were originally bred to tend to flocks of sheep, but they also have friendly personalities that have made their transition to family pets a smooth one.

- 2023 popularity rank: #155

First bred in Virginia, these dogs are Southern hunters through and through. Once the dog trees its prey—usually a raccoon—it will let out a distinctive bark to let its owner know where to find supper. These dogs are great with kids, but—like other breeds throughout this list—not ideal if your household has other pets smaller than your prolific hunting dog.

- 2023 popularity rank: #156

The Australian terrier is a frontier dog bred to be an exterminator of snakes and small mammals, even perfecting a "leap-twist-and-pounce" technique. Nevertheless, these sweet dogs want nothing more than to play and keep their owners happy. Despite their good nature, this scrappy breed has a history of working on farms.

- 2023 popularity rank: #157

These dogs made perfect smugglers due to their unique coats. The breed was reportedly used to smuggle tobacco and matches across the Franco-Belgian border. Furry pouches of tobacco would be strapped to shaved dogs, who would then go unnoticed as they moved the contraband across the border.

- 2023 popularity rank: #158

Each word in this French breed's name is relevant to the description of this dog, which is small with short legs and wiry coats that come from the Vendée region of France. As a true pack dog, this breed is happiest surrounded by other pets and family members.

- 2023 popularity rank: #159

Löwchen translates to "little lion"—an appropriate nickname for a breed that often sports an impressive mane. Löwchens are primarily companion dogs, and their gentle natures make them ideal for work as therapy dogs, as well.

- 2023 popularity rank: #160

Kerry blue terriers, one of the largest of the AKC terriers, hail from Ireland and are said to possess a distinctly Irish spirit to boot. These dogs are mischievous, loyal, and have a nearly boundless sense of energy.

- 2023 popularity rank: #161

A real sporting dog at heart, the Nederlandse kooikerhondje are known to be lively, self-confident, alert, and good-natured pups. Apart from their adorable black-tipped ears, this "little white and orange dog with a big heart" is also a faithful furry friend, making them the ideal playmates to have in the home—but they also wouldn't mind exerting some of their energy outdoors, either.

- 2023 popularity rank: #162

This breed has been described in French as "diablotin moustachu," or mustached little devil. The nickname is affectionate and has more to do with the dog's coat than personality. Affenpinscher translates to "monkey terrier," which makes sense considering the breed is known for its dexterity and ability to grasp things with its front paws.

- 2023 popularity rank: #163

The official dog of Portugal was once commonly found on the ships of medieval Portuguese explorers. These days, these small dogs can still be keen hunters but are just as happy being their owners' best friends. In Portugal, the breed is classified into three size categories (small, medium, and large) but in the United States, the Portuguese podengo has two sizes (large and medium), which is a separate breed from the Portuguese podengo pequeno.

- 2023 popularity rank: #164

One misconception that has haunted the bright puli is that they have trouble with their eyesight. In fact, the only eye issue plaguing the herding dog is an unruly, long mane that can obstruct vision if not trimmed. As long as you keep your puli well-groomed, its eyesight shouldn't be a problem (although keeping up with the energetic, stubborn breed might be).

- 2023 popularity rank: #165

Not as well known as its cousin, the Irish red setters, this breed almost went extinct during the first World War. They make excellent hunters (and fun, high-energy family dogs). They make excellent companions in the outdoors, on hikes or bike rides.

- 2023 popularity rank: #166

Ibizan hounds were once owned by Egyptian pharaohs, but they would still be right at home in your less-than-royal abode. These athletic dogs make excellent pets—just be sure they get plenty of exercise to tire them out.

- 2023 popularity rank: #167

These retrievers are known for their spectacular curly coats. While they look like they've been crossed with poodles, curly-coated retrievers share no relation. As with all retriever breeds, these dogs are loving, make great family pets, and are eager to please.

- 2023 popularity rank: #168

The American water spaniel is the state dog of Wisconsin. These sweet hunting dogs were bred to dive off boats after prey, making them a favorite for people who live in the Great Lakes region of the United States.

- 2023 popularity rank: #169

These white terriers were bred specifically to hunt small game like badgers, otters, and pheasants. Even the breed's white coat played a role in its work as an excellent hunting companion. The stark shade allowed the dog to stand out in landscapes full of brown and gray hues. Sealyham terriers are known for their fearlessness and outgoing nature and can make great family pets as long as they're kept away from any other, smaller pets who they're likely to hunt.

- 2023 popularity rank: #170

The breed originated when Queen Elizabeth I's soldiers settled into the Wicklow region and intermixed their hounds with local terriers, which resulted in these sweet fluff-balls. They make great family pets but may be too strong for young children to play with.

- 2023 popularity rank: #171

The Scottish deerhound is a friendly enough dog, but they love a good chase—which means a workout for their owners. Playing fetch isn't their forte, however, and neither is barking when a stranger is at the door.

- 2023 popularity rank: #172

The pumi originated in Hungary as far back as A.D. 800. Officially adopted by the American Kennel Club in 2016, a pumi is easily distinguished by its corkscrew curls and incredible intelligence. The breed's history as a sheepdog in the Hungarian countryside makes pumi best suited to active, outdoor lifestyles with lots of attention from their owners.

- 2023 popularity rank: #173

Hailing from Hungary, this was the chosen breed by King Matthias I. They are extremely loyal and will even sacrifice themselves to protect their humans. The troubled king is believed to have trusted his beloved kuvasz more than any human in his court.

- 2023 popularity rank: #174

Sussex spaniels are talkers for good reason. Because their short legs keep them so low to the ground (they max out between 13 and 15 inches tall), these even-tempered, athletic dogs bark and make other noises to alert hunters to their whereabouts.

- 2023 popularity rank: #175

Known as the dog of the Vikings, the Norwegian buhund is an ancient breed. The dog's history of riding shotgun with the Vikings continues. These are hardworking dogs that are readily able to help on the farm or help take care of a family. They are quite talkative, however, and their lush coats make for a lot of shedding.

- 2023 popularity rank: #176

Malta's national dog is a favorite in the United States as well. This dynamic breed is exceptional at hunting rabbits and requires a tall fence to keep the high-jumper from straying.

- 2023 popularity rank: #177

The Irish water spaniel is the tallest of all the spaniel breeds. These dogs are adept swimmers with water-repellent fur. Irish water spaniels are known for being downright clownish despite their working roots.

- 2023 popularity rank: #178

American English coonhounds are believed to have a presidential origin story. Evidence suggests George Washington was one of the first people in America to own these dogs.

- 2023 popularity rank: #179

These sled dogs are named after the dog that started their line. Breeder Arthur Walden crossed his dog Chinook with a stock husky to create the breed. Sadly, Chinook was later lost during an expedition to Antarctica. These dogs are amazing family pets, known for their gentle nature and excessive affection.

- 2023 popularity rank: #180

There's just no getting around the fact that a komondor's fur looks an awful lot like a mop. But there's a good reason for that: Their coats act as camouflage so that they can blend in with sheep and surprise any wolves that get too close.

- 2023 popularity rank: #181

This all-American breed was developed in the Smoky Mountains. German immigrant Johannes George Plott and his descendants were responsible for breeding these superior trackers. Plott hounds are best suited for experienced dog owners, as they require consistent training; with a firm leader, these dogs can make wonderful family pets.

- 2023 popularity rank: #182

As the state dog of Virginia, American foxhounds are a beloved hunting breed and originated from dogs brought over to the American colonies. These dogs are also valuable during search-and-rescue missions, thanks to their keen sense of smell. They're also great with children, some of whom even learned to walk while holding onto the breed's tail.

- 2023 popularity rank: #183

Entlebucher mountain dogs can most often be found working in the mountains of Switzerland from where they originate. A cousin of the Bernese mountain dog, it can be difficult to tell the two breeds apart.

- 2023 popularity rank: #184

First recognized by the AKC in 2015, this ancient breed's name means "dog of Cyrene (Libya)." These agile dogs have remarkable instincts for hunting—especially when it comes to rabbits.

- 2023 popularity rank: #185

Skye terriers love their owners but can be pretty ambivalent about everyone else. These regal animals were a favorite of Queen Victoria's and have working dog roots.

- 2023 popularity rank: #186

The Dandie Dinmont terrier got its name from Sir Walter Scott's 1815 novel "Guy Mannering." The diminutive dogs are known for their prominent poofs of hair atop their heads, as well as their relatively mild-mannered temperaments.

- 2023 popularity rank: #187

World War I brought these small sheepdogs out of the mountains and into the war zone. The breed served as couriers, led search-and-rescue missions, and worked side by side with soldiers.

- 2023 popularity rank: #188

These sheepdogs have instantly recognizable coats of long, curly fur that need to be well-groomed. If you're up for the task, then this Italian breed is perfect for active families with big yards.

- 2023 popularity rank: #189

There are said to be fewer than 350 otterhounds currently in the United States and less than 1,000 worldwide. These dogs make great pets due to their even temperaments and friendly nature, but their thick double coats require at least weekly brushings.

- 2023 popularity rank: #190

A member of the hound group, these hearty little pooches are sometimes mistaken for beagles. Although they have a history as hunters, this is one breed that has adapted beautifully to life as a family pet. Harriers usually love children, but their energy might make them a bit too much for younger kids to handle.

- 2023 popularity rank: #191

Canaan dogs have a rich history dating back to Biblical times. Before the Romans destroyed Jerusalem, Canaan dogs herded sheep and other livestock. After their owners were driven out of their homeland, the dogs fled to the desert where they lived undomesticated until the 20th century.

- 2023 popularity rank: #192

The American Kennel Club claims that, as of 2017, there were only around 600 Cesky terriers in the U.S. This calm terrier breed may be rare stateside, but those who have the privilege of being a Cesky owner likely know that they're keen hunters and eager agility competitors.

- 2023 popularity rank: #193

The Polish lowland sheepdog is a true hero of a breed. During World War II, a Polish lowland named Psyche is said to have warned people in Warsaw when bombs were going to drop. These pups are happiest when they have jobs, making them highly trainable and eager to please.

- 2023 popularity rank: #194

Taimyr wolves live on through the Finnish spitz. The ancient breed of wolves is extinct, but DNA research has shown that they were at least partly responsible for the existence of these champion barkers with a fox-like appearance. These smart dogs are fast learners, but they're also cunning and will find ways to challenge their trainers.

- 2023 popularity rank: #195

This rare breed was only officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2020, although it is thought to have originated in the 1880s as a Belgian herding dog. The Laekenois was used as a messenger dog during both the First and Second World Wars and was even targeted by Hitler. There are currently only about 1,000 Laekenois worldwide.

- 2023 popularity rank: #196

The lack of Azawakh popularity in the U.S. is attributable to its rarity, recency, and unfamiliarity in the states. The African sighthound traces its origins to ancient times on the continent's western region, roaming the Sahara alongside nomads. The first Azawakh arrived in America in the 1980s, birthing the first domestic litter by the end of the decade. The AKC classified them as "miscellaneous" in 2011; they only joined the official Hound Group in 2019; and are now eligible for the Westminster Dog Show.

- 2023 popularity rank: #197

This newly recognized French breed is rare in the United States because of its breeding difficulty. Owners of these hunting hounds report they are quiet, family-friendly companions that require vigorous daily exercise to work off their huge amounts of excess energy. Their name is also descriptive, roughly translating to "large, low, shaggy dog of the Vendée."

- 2023 popularity rank: #198

Norwegian lundehunds boast two unusual characteristics that make them skilled at sniffing out puffins. These curious pups have six toes on each foot that seem to have developed to help them navigate slippery rocks. They can also fold their ears shut—which protects them from water and helps out when crawling into a puffin burrow.

- 2023 popularity rank: #199

Unlike many hunting dog breeds, English foxhounds still haven't completely caught on as companion dogs in the traditional sense. Generally, these dogs are kept by hunters and live in packs trained to chase foxes.

- 2023 popularity rank: #200

Sloughi owners have been loyal to their dogs since ancient times—at least if the maxims are to be believed. These elegant animals have found favor with royals throughout history. They say the breed may have arrived in Europe through the Berber cavalrymen that came along with Hannibal as he crossed the Alps.