Dogs are considered “man's best friend” because they are loyal and make wonderful companions. They are so loyal that they will risk their lives for their owners. Whether you are a doting pet owner or just an animal lover with an insatiable curiosity about the pet world, International Dog Day is the perfect opportunity to learn about some unusual dog breeds that you may not know much about. While many of us have only heard of popular breeds like German Shepherds and Labradors, there exists a special category of dogs that are very rare. Each of these special dogs boasts unique characteristics that set them apart from the average dog in the neighborhood. Whether it's their distinctive looks or temperament, here are some reasons why these dog breeds are truly special and different from the average dog in the neighborhood.
1. Brazilian Mastiff
The Fila Brasileiro, or Brazilian Mastiff, is an unusual large dog breed with a striking appearance. With its distinctive fur and loose fold of skin around its neck called the fila, this breed stands out from other breeds with its muscular build and unwavering loyalty. There is a proverb in Brazil that translates to “Loyal as Fila,” which speaks to the dog's loyalty and reliability. However, to thrive, this dog needs an owner who will give it enough space to grow and live.
2. New Guinea Singing Dog
An ancient and rare breed native to the New Guinea Highlands, the New Guinea Singing Dog is known for its distinctive high-pitched yodels, barks and whining calls. Despite the name, the species remains wild and has never been domesticated. Thought to have lived on the island for over 5,000 years, these agile and athletic dogs have adapted to the rugged terrain of the highlands. However, the species is critically endangered, with fewer than 200 remaining.
3. Otterhound
They have the most excellent sense of smell and are renowned for their excellent olfactory skills. Otterhounds are blessed with a large nose and large nostrils. Although they are a large hunting dog native to the UK, they are a very friendly and gentle breed. Their tall, long and stocky build makes them impossible to ignore. They have a rough double coat of fur and webbed feet, which makes them different from hounds. They are an endangered native breed with only 600 left in the world.
4. Lagotto Romagnolo
The Italian breed of dog, Lagotto Romagnolo, originating from the marshes of Italy, was used for hunting and truffle hunting thanks to its thick, curly coat. Lagotto Romagnolo means “Dog of the Lakes of Romagna”. Truffle-hunting dogs search for truffles, a fungus that lives underground, and report them to their owners. The Lagotto is the only purebred dog in the world officially recognized as a specialized dog for truffle hunting.
5. Mudi
The Mudi breed is native to Hungary and is known as a small and unusual sheepdog known for its intelligence and active personality. It has medium curly hair. It is also well known as an excellent search and rescue dog in both Finland and the United States. It excels in dog sports and is known for its characteristics such as obedience and agility. Its coat can be white, yellow, brown, black or grey.
6. Azawakh
These West African dogs originate from Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger. These slender dogs have a sleek appearance but are known for surviving the long, hot desert conditions of the Sahara.
What unusual dog breeds would you like to add to our list? Let us know in the comments below.
(Image credit: iStock)
