6 Unusual Dogs You've Probably Never Heard Of

There are so many dog breeds in the world that we are convinced there will be at least a handful that you’ve never heard of before. 

6 Unusual Dogs You've Probably Never Heard Of
[image: pexels by blue bird]

If you are thinking of adopting or buying a dog, consider these unique breeds. As you will find in the dutch shepherd vs belgian malinois debate, there are lots of species that have similar traits, so before you start looking at the basic labrador, check out these quirky puppies! They might have all the features you’re looking for, with a beautiful individual appearance. 

Glen of Imaal Terrier

This tiny terrier was initially bred in Wicklow, Republic of Ireland. They were used for two reasons. The first was to hunt badgers, the natural pest to the British Isles, which would bring diseases to cattle. The second was to run on a turnspit. A turnspit is like a hamster wheel for dogs, and it would mince meat or churn flour.

This means that Glen of Imaal Terriers are intelligent and territorial dogs who enjoy running. They aren’t always friendly to other dogs, but if you are part of the pack, then you’ll be accepted.

Ibizan Hound

Ibizan Hounds are graceful creatures. With the legs of a greyhound and the colors of a deer, if you spot one on your travels, you’ll recognize it instantly as a beauty.  Their eyes are large and amber in color and have distinctive red and white fur.

In Spain, you’ll find two versions of fur; either smooth short-haired velvet textures or wiry thick coats, which are good for the winter.

The Ibizan Hounds were originally bred to hunt rabbits. This has taught the dogs to be quiet and agile, but just as a rabbit can jump over fences, so can this leggy beast.

They are great with kids but need a lot of exercises to keep them staying slender.

Yakutian Laika

If you looked at a Yakutian Laika and had never seen one before, you may think that the dog was a cross between a husky and a border collie. But these beautiful and ethereal creatures have been around for centuries. 

In the 1800s, you’d find these dogs herding, hunting, and sledding through Russian Siberia. They were considered an asset to Siberia families, as they protected their livestock and their children.

The community vibe means they aren’t happy being alone, but they will bring joy and energy to your home.

Every image of them seems to hold a spirit of the snow and the night. Who wouldn’t want these majestic dogs in their home!

Cane Corso

We can trace Cane Corso’s all the way back to 600AD Italy. Pronounced Connie Corso, these dogs were made for war. Their large build and strong determination meant that they were perfect for attacking the enemy. Of course, over time, this instinct was turned away from human enemies and towards hunting animals. Cane Corso became the guard dogs of the rich and protected their families well.

As you might expect, most families no longer want a vicious puppy in their home, and by the 1980s, the Cane Corso was almost extinct.

We are happy to say that this isn’t the case today. Cane Corsos have been brought back into the world, but be mindful; they still require experienced dog owners who will understand their instinct to protect and defend.

Kai Ken

There are 6 Japanese breeds left in existence, and the Kai Ken is one that few people know about. They come in three different brindle varieties. These are the black bridle, red brindle, or just brindle. Brindle in Japanese means Tiger, so no matter which one you get, you’ll have a little tiger in your home.

Kai Kens were used as hunters, and their changing colors allowed them to blend and be stealthy in the vibrant colors of a Japanese forest.

They are incredibly loyal as a breed and love to be clean.

Schipperke

Pronounced Skipper-Key, Schipperke are dogs native to Belgium. Their beautiful coat creates a scarf of fluff around their necks. It gave them the nickname “the little black devil.” These tiny beasts were bred to be rat hunters. They still carry on this trait today, diving into cupboards for their tasty treats. An owner of a Schipperke has to be prepared for mischief.

Their devilish nature also makes them perfect escape artists. Your backyard will need to have a well-kept barrier, otherwise, this little puppy will find a way to run into the wilds.