The Tibetan Mastiff:

As its name suggests, the Tibetan Mastiff originated in Tibet. It was bred as a guard dog for livestock. This breed is known for being loyal to their families, and fearless against those that attempt to attack its flock. Not only are they considered as one of the rare dog breeds, but also one of the most expensive (sold at $1.5M)!

The Azawakh:

Having a complex personality, this rare sighthound may not be suited for everyone. The Azawakh is originally bred to hunt hare, antelope, and wild boar. Being a desert dog, he can’t live in cold places like the Pacific Northwest or New England.

The Swedish Vallhund:

For centuries, the Swedish Vallhund has been a farm dog that herds cattle, and a watchdog that fends off critters. Coming from the Spitz family, the Swedish Vallhund is the cousin of the Corgi. That explains the huge resemblance. The extinction of this rare dog breed has been prevented during the 1940s.

The Bedlington Terrier:

With his alertness and intelligence, the Bedlington Terrier makes a good watchdog. He can be very entertaining with his unique lamb-like appearance matched with his energetic temperament. Although this breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club, it’s still part of the list of rare dog breeds in the world.

The Carolina Dog:

Also referred to as the American Dingo, the Carolina Dog is one of the ancient dogs that stood the test of time. Being a pariah dog, the Carolina Dog adapts well to hot places, and needs a spacious open area around him.

The Finnish Spitz:

The Finnish Spitz is the national dog of Finland. Originally bred as a hunting dog, he’s used to hunt a variety of game from grouse to moose. This breed possesses so much devotion and loyalty to his family.

The Norwegian Lundehund:

The Norwegian Lundehund belongs to the Spitz family and has the odd feature of having six toes on each of his foot. With the extra toe plus his agility, he can climb steep places such as cliffs! Being a primitive breed, the Norwegian Lundehund is not easy to housetrain. He would bark, dig, and climb anywhere in your house. As such, this rare dog breed is not recommended for first-time pet parents.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog:

Originating in Catahoula, Louisiana, the Catahoula Leopard Dog is a medium-sized working dog used by hunters to track raccoons. This rare dog breed is very loyal and loving to his family. Although already part of the American Kennel Club’s Foundation Stock Service, this breed is still yet to be fully recognized. Thus still considered as one of the rare dog breeds.

The Chinook:

With his muscular and well-balanced body structure, the Chinook makes a good sled dog. In 1966, there were only 125 Chinooks existing. This made the breed the Guinness Book of World Records’ rarest dog at the time.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid:

One of the hairless dog breeds, the PIO has a unique appearance. Thick lips, wrinkled and leathery ear, and hair sprouting only at the top of his head. This sighthound is known to be calm and intelligent. It also does well with children and other dogs.

The Thai Ridgeback:

The Thai Ridgeback is one of the rare dog breeds native to Thailand. Only very few of its kind can be found in the North America and Europe regions. The breed is quite active and possesses superb jumping skills. His alertness makes him a good guard dog.

The Mudi:

This dog breed is just as rare even in Hungary where he originated. Having numerous skills and talents, the Mudi is truly valuable and incomparable. Some of its skills include: herding cow and sheep, being a guard dog, being a ratter, and being a loving companion. If not for the efforts of the passionate breeders, the Mudi may be in danger of extinction.

The Stabyhoun:

The Stabyhoun is one of the gun dog breeds used for small game and bird, as well as catching moles. Globally, there are only about 6,000 Stabyhouns, having only over 300 of these found in the United States and Canada combined.