5 of the Rarest Dog Breeds You Can Still Find Today
By Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital

Everyone loves a lovable Labrador or a playful Poodle—but what about the dogs you don’t see at the park every day? At Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital, we know pet lovers are always curious about unique breeds, so we’ve rounded up five of the rarest dog breeds that you can still welcome into your home.

1. Lagotto Romagnolo

Known as the “truffle dog,” this curly-coated Italian breed is friendly, hypoallergenic, and has an excellent nose. Originally bred to hunt truffles, they now make affectionate and intelligent companions.

2. Azawakh

This elegant sighthound from West Africa is fast, loyal, and surprisingly affectionate once bonded with their humans. With their lean frames and graceful movement, Azawakhs are a truly striking and rare sight.

3. Otterhound

With fewer than 1,000 worldwide, the Otterhound is an endangered breed. These shaggy, fun-loving dogs were bred for otter hunting in medieval England, but today they’re gentle, goofy, and great with families.

4. Thai Ridgeback

Sleek, strong, and fiercely loyal, the Thai Ridgeback has a distinctive ridge of fur running along its back. Though rare outside of Thailand, they’re gaining fans for their intelligence and protective nature.

5. Norwegian Lundehund

Bred to scale cliffs and hunt puffins, this quirky Norwegian dog has extra toes and super-flexible joints. They’re playful and curious, but their independent spirit makes them best suited for experienced owners.

Love Rare Breeds? Know Their Needs

While these dogs are rare, they’re not impossible to find—just be sure to research their care needs and work with ethical breeders or rescues. At Lakeshore Road Animal Hospital, we’re here to support all breeds—common or rare—with compassionate, knowledgeable care.