When it comes to large dog breeds, most people think of the usual suspects like Labradors or German Shepherds. But have you ever wondered about those rare large dog breeds that stand out from the crowd? We’re talking about the unusual massive dog breeds that make people stop and stare. These exotic giant canine breeds are not only rare, but they also boast exceptional traits that set them apart from the rest.
From their massive size to their fascinating characteristics, these breeds are a far cry from the ordinary. Get ready to discover unique big dog breeds that you may have never heard of before.
From the Peruvian Inca Orchid, known for its unique hairless appearance, to the Lagotto Romagnolo, a breed with exceptional truffle hunting abilities, each of these rare dog breeds has something special to offer. So whether you’re a dog enthusiast or simply someone who loves the extraordinary, join us as we explore the world of rare large dog breeds. Get ready to be amazed by these rarest dog breeds that are waiting to be discovered!
7 Rare Large Dog Breeds
1. Peruvian Inca Orchid
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a rare and ancient breed known for its unique hairless appearance. Originating in Peru, this breed has a distinctive look with its bare skin and elegant build.
Appearance and Characteristics
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a striking hypoallergenic breed, renowned for its hairless body and graceful structure. Its smooth skin is a defining feature that sets it apart from other large dog breeds. These dogs come in a variety of colors, including shades of gray, tan, black, and brown.
Despite their hairless appearance, Peruvian Inca Orchids have a refined and athletic build. They stand tall and proud, with a slim yet muscular body. Their heads are sleek and elongated, with expressive eyes that captivate anyone who gazes upon them.
In terms of temperament, Peruvian Inca Orchids are known for their affectionate and loyal nature. They form strong bonds with their owners and enjoy being part of the family. They are intelligent and trainable, making them suitable for various activities such as obedience training and agility trials.
Grooming the Peruvian Inca Orchid requires special attention due to their lack of hair. Despite not needing regular brushing, their skin should be moisturized and protected from the sun. Regular bathing is necessary to keep their skin clean and healthy. Additionally, proper dental care and nail trimming are essential to ensure their overall well-being.
| Appearance and Characteristics: | |
| Size: | Medium to large |
| Coat: | Hairless |
| Colors: | Various, including shades of gray, tan, black, and brown |
| Temperament: | Affectionate, loyal, intelligent |
| Grooming: | Moisturizing, sun protection, regular bathing, dental care, nail trimming |
2. Bedlington Terrier
History and Temperament
The Bedlington Terrier is a rare and distinctive terrier breed that stands out among other large dog breeds. Known for its curly coat and gentle temperament, the Bedlington Terrier is a unique dog breed that has captured the hearts of many.
Originally, Bedlington Terriers were bred in England for hunting and fighting purposes. Their agility and tenacity made them excellent at catching vermin and small game. However, over time, their hunting instincts have been softened, and they have evolved into loving family companions.
The history of the Bedlington Terrier can be traced back to the town of Bedlington in Northumberland, England, where they were highly valued for their hunting skills. It is believed that these dogs were crossed with various breeds like the Dandie Dinmont Terrier and Whippet to create their unique appearance and temperament.
The Bedlington Terrier’s distinctive feature is its curly coat, which closely resembles that of a lamb. This coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and to maintain its soft texture. Despite their elegant appearance, Bedlington Terriers are not high-maintenance when it comes to exercise. They are a relatively active breed that enjoys daily walks and playtime.
What sets the Bedlington Terrier apart from other terrier breeds is its gentle and affectionate nature. They are known to be excellent family pets and get along well with children and other animals. Bedlington Terriers are loyal, intelligent, and eager to please, making them trainable and responsive.
In summary, the Bedlington Terrier is a rare large dog breed with a rich history and a unique temperament. From their origins as hunting dogs to their current role as beloved family companions, these curly-coated canines offer both charm and loyalty to their owners.
| Bedlington Terrier Overview | |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Weight | 17-23 pounds |
| Height | 15.5-17.5 inches |
| Coat | Curly, similar to lamb’s fleece |
| Temperament | Gentle, affectionate, loyal, intelligent |
| Exercise Needs | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs | Regular brushing and professional grooming |
| Trainability | Responsive and trainable |
3. English Foxhound
Hunting Background and Training
The English Foxhound is a rare and versatile large dog breed with a rich history in hunting. Bred for their excellent scenting abilities and endurance, English Foxhounds excel in tracking and chasing game. Their origins can be traced back to England, where they were primarily used for fox hunting.
As a hunting dog breed, English Foxhounds are known for their keen sense of smell and their ability to follow scents over long distances. They have a strong prey drive and are highly motivated when it comes to tracking and chasing prey. Their large size and powerful build allow them to cover ground quickly and tirelessly.
Training an English Foxhound requires consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. They are intelligent dogs but can be independent and stubborn at times. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for establishing a strong bond and shaping their behavior.
When it comes to hunting, English Foxhounds are typically trained to work in packs. They are taught how to follow scents, stay on track, and work collaboratively with other hounds. Training methods include scent tracking exercises, obedience training, and exposure to different hunting environments.
It’s important to note that English Foxhounds have a strong instinct to follow scents, which can make off-leash activities challenging. They should always be supervised in open areas to prevent them from running off in pursuit of a scent. Secure fencing is also recommended to keep them safely contained in their environment.
Hunting Background and Training
| Characteristic | Description |
| Size | English Foxhounds are large dogs, typically weighing between 60 to 70 pounds. |
| Coat | They have short, dense coats that protect them from various weather conditions. |
| Temperament | English Foxhounds are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They get along well with other dogs and are generally good with children. |
| Exercise Needs | Due to their hunting background, English Foxhounds have high exercise needs. They require daily physical activity to prevent boredom and keep them mentally and physically stimulated. |
| Grooming | They have low grooming needs. Regular brushing to remove loose hair and occasional baths are usually sufficient to keep their coat in good condition. |
| Health | English Foxhounds are generally healthy dogs. However, like all breeds, they may be prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, ear infections, and obesity. |
4. Cesky Terrier
Origin and Coat Characteristics
The Cesky Terrier originated in the Czech Republic. Known for their unique long and silky coat, Cesky Terriers are adored for their charming appearance.
Originally developed by a Czech geneticist, Frantisek Horak, in the mid-20th century, the Cesky Terrier is a relatively new terrier breed. It was specifically bred to be a versatile hunting dog, capable of tracking and flushing game in the Bohemian forests.
One of the defining features of the Cesky Terrier is its coat. Their soft, wavy fur, which can come in shades of gray-blue or brown-gray, requires regular grooming to maintain its elegant appearance. Their unique coat aids in protecting them from harsh weather conditions, making them suitable for outdoor activities.
Beneath their silky exterior lies a sturdy and muscular physique, giving the Cesky Terrier the strength and agility necessary for their hunting tasks. Despite their larger size, Cesky Terriers are known for their calm and gentle demeanor, making them excellent family pets.
The Cesky Terrier is a rare terrier breed that stands out with its unique coat and Czech origin. Their versatility, charming appearance, and calm temperament make them an ideal choice for both hunting enthusiasts and families seeking a loyal and affectionate companion.
5. Norwegian Lundehund
The Norwegian Lundehund is an incredibly rare and fascinating large dog breed with unique physical traits and adaptations. Originating in Norway, this breed is known for its extra toes, flexible joints, and ability to climb steep cliffs. The Norwegian Lundehund’s distinct characteristics set it apart from other rare large dog breeds.
Unique Physical Traits and Adaptations
The Norwegian Lundehund possesses several remarkable physical traits that make it truly unique. One of its most notable features is its ability to have up to six fully functional toes on each paw, unlike other dog breeds that typically have five. These extra toes provide the Lundehund with increased stability and agility, giving it an advantage in traversing rocky terrains and navigating uneven surfaces.
In addition to the extra toes, the Lundehund also has highly flexible joints, particularly in its shoulders and neck. This extraordinary flexibility enables it to bend its head backward until it touches its spine, making it adept at squeezing through narrow crevices and tight spaces. This characteristic was initially developed to help the Lundehund hunt and retrieve puffins, a seabird found in the coastal cliffs of Norway.
The Norwegian Lundehund’s extensive adaptation to its native environment allows it to excel in climbing steep cliffs, where it can reach inaccessible bird nests and collect eggs. This unique ability is attributed to its flexible shoulder joints, which allow its front legs to extend outwards at a 90-degree angle, providing optimal balance and support during climbing.
While the Norwegian Lundehund’s physical traits are undeniably remarkable, its adaptability and resilience also make it a wonderful companion. Despite its rare status and specialized history, the Lundehund is known for its friendly and playful nature, making it a cherished pet and a remarkable addition to any family.
| Traits | Description |
| Extra Toes | The Norwegian Lundehund can have up to six fully functional toes on each paw, providing enhanced stability and agility. |
| Flexible Joints | The Lundehund has remarkably flexible joints, particularly in its shoulders and neck, allowing it to bend its head backward until it touches its spine. |
| Climbing Ability | The Lundehund’s flexible shoulder joints enable it to extend its front legs outward at a 90-degree angle, granting balance and support during climbing. |
| Adaptability | Despite its rare characteristics, the Norwegian Lundehund is known for its friendly and playful nature, making it an excellent companion. |
6. Finnish Spitz
Vocalization and Hunting Skills
The Finnish Spitz is a rare large dog breed hailing from Finland. Known for their vibrant red coat and distinctive vocalizations, Finnish Spitz dogs possess excellent hunting skills and a strong prey drive. They are often referred to as the “Barking Bird Dog” due to their unique bark that resembles a yodel. This breed’s vocal nature makes them excellent at alerting their owners to the presence of game during hunts.
The Finnish Spitz has a rich history as a hunting dog in Finland, where they were used to flush out game, including birds and small mammals. Their ability to locate and track prey is exceptional, making them invaluable companions for hunters. With their high energy levels and agility, Finnish Spitz dogs excel in various hunting activities.
Aside from their hunting skills, Finnish Spitz dogs have a friendly and intelligent temperament, making them a great choice for families. They are loyal, affectionate, and enjoy being part of the household activities. However, they can be independent and strong-willed, requiring consistent training and socialization from an early age.
To keep a Finnish Spitz happy and healthy, they require regular exercise to satisfy their high energy levels. Daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation activities are essential for their well-being. A securely fenced yard is also recommended to prevent them from chasing after wildlife.
In summary, the Finnish Spitz is a unique and rare large dog breed with exceptional vocalization and hunting skills. Their vibrant red coat and distinctive yodel-like bark make them stand out from other breeds. If you’re looking for a hunting companion with a strong prey drive and a loving family pet, the Finnish Spitz might be the perfect choice.
7. Lagotto Romagnolo
Truffle Hunting and Family Companionship
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a rare large dog breed that originated in Italy. This unique Italian breed has gained popularity for its exceptional truffle hunting abilities and makes for an ideal family companion.
Historically, the Lagotto Romagnolo was bred specifically for truffle hunting, showcasing their remarkable sense of smell and strong work ethic. These dogs quickly became the go-to breed for truffle harvesting, thanks to their keen ability to locate and excavate these delectable fungi that grow underground.
Besides their exceptional truffle hunting skills, Lagotto Romagnolos also make excellent family pets. They are known for their friendly and gentle temperament, making them great companions for children and adults alike. It’s important to note that Lagotto Romagnolos are intelligent and highly trainable, making them adaptable to various lifestyles.
Whether you’re seeking a skilled truffle hunting partner or a loving family pet, the Lagotto Romagnolo is a rare large dog breed that embodies both qualities. With their Italian heritage and versatile nature, they are sure to bring joy, companionship, and a touch of uniqueness to any household.
FAQ
What are some rare large dog breeds?
Some rare large dog breeds include the Peruvian Inca Orchid, Bedlington Terrier, English Foxhound, Cesky Terrier, Norwegian Lundehund, Finnish Spitz, and Lagotto Romagnolo.
What makes the Peruvian Inca Orchid unique?
The Peruvian Inca Orchid is known for its hairless appearance, elegant build, and origin in Peru.
How is the Bedlington Terrier different from other large dog breeds?
The Bedlington Terrier stands out for its curly coat and gentle temperament. It was originally bred for hunting and fighting but has evolved into a loving family companion.
What are the hunting capabilities of the English Foxhound?
The English Foxhound is a versatile large dog breed with a rich history in hunting. Bred for their scenting abilities and endurance, they excel in tracking and chasing game.
What is unique about the Cesky Terrier?
The Cesky Terrier is a rare large dog breed originating from the Czech Republic. They are known for their unique long and silky coat, charming appearance, and suitability as family pets.
What are the extraordinary physical traits of the Norwegian Lundehund?
The Norwegian Lundehund has unique physical traits and adaptations, including extra toes, flexible joints, and the ability to climb steep cliffs. They originated in Norway.
What distinguishes the Finnish Spitz from other large dog breeds?
The Finnish Spitz stands out for its vibrant red coat, distinctive vocalizations, and excellent hunting skills. They possess a strong prey drive and are known for their vocal nature.
What are the characteristics of the Lagotto Romagnolo?
The Lagotto Romagnolo is a rare large dog breed from Italy known for its exceptional truffle hunting abilities. They make loving and loyal family pets in addition to their hunting skills.
