30 awesome dog breeds you’ve never heard of – until now

The Belgian Laekenois (pronounced “Lak-in-wah”) is one of four native dogs that call Belgium home. You’ll be tempted to snuggle up on the couch and run your fingers through its tousled coat, but the Laekenois will probably put some time limits on it. They’re no slackers and won’t be satisfied with sitting around the house or being left alone in the backyard. Laekenois want to be with their human family and require an active lifestyle to be happy.

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This pint-sized Portuguese Podengo is the smallest of Portugal’s three Podengo breeds; it’s just 20 to 30cm tall at the shoulder and weighs about six kilograms. These dogs sport either a wire or smooth coat, both of which require a little grooming. Chasing rabbits is in their genes, so they’re wired to run and play until they drop. Maybe it’s all that exercise that keeps them healthy because they usually live well into their teens. You won’t have to make many visits to the vet with this breed, as it’s known to have few genetic problems.

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The Teddy Roosevelt Terrier is a lively, friendly, affectionate dog with his family but often will latch onto one person, in particular. The breed was named in honour of President Teddy Roosevelt, who “appointed” these rat terriers to combat the rat infestation in the White House. Spunky and lovable, these dogs are outgoing and friendly with kids and family pets when raised together. With their love of social life, they don’t do well when they’re in kennels, consistently tied up, or isolated from their people.

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Pronounced like “beaver,” the Biewer Terrier is as cute as it is sweet. It is a delightful little lapdog whose sole purpose is to love and be loved. Biewers have that swoon factor – innocent (I didn’t chew your shoe), adorable (I’m as cute as a button), friendly (I see the good in everyone), and a dash of spunk (I love being the star of the show). It’s no wonder this rare dog is seeing a growing amount of interest, says Dr. Klein. According to the AKC, Biewers are also “the first breed to be recognised as a breed of its own (purebred) using advancements in science rather than the traditional process of pedigree documentation.”

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If the great outdoors make you feel icky, then the Peruvian Inca Orchid could be the perfect canine BFF for you. Their delicate, hairless bodies don’t bode well outside, so they prefer the indoors. When they do go out for walks, sunscreen is a must for their coat. One big word of warning: PIOs are sighthounds and may see small pets as prey. As a primitive breed, their temperaments can vary from docile to more feral, so they’re not ideal for families with young children.

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The only dog breed named after a literary character, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier was named after a robust and friendly farmer in Sir Walter Scott’s 1814 book Guy Mannering. “The breed is small but not dainty, lovable and playful but still tough, and amongst the most docile of the terriers,” says Dr Klein. “They would make an excellent city dog, but they can be hard to obtain. Should you be lucky enough to find a breeder of DDTs, you will almost certainly find your best friend in this breed.”

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At first glance, you might think the Saluki missed a few meals, but its slim and leggy appearance is naturally adept for swiftness and agility – skills needed thousands of years ago as the favourite hunting hound of Egyptian pharaohs. In fact, they were so highly esteemed that Salukis were often mummified like the bodies of the pharaohs themselves. But the only things the Saluki is hunting for these days are toys and your affection. They’ll be happy just about anywhere you are – in the city or the country and in just about any climate.

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At first glance, you might think we showed you the same rare dog breed twice. “Easily confused with a Saluki, the Azawakh (pronounced AH-ZA-WAH) is unique in its own right,” says O’Neill. “Many people find them distant or aloof, but those who own the breed know how loyal and sweet they can be.” This sighthound from Africa used to chase gazelles across the searing sands of the Sahara, but these days the Azawakh favours sidewalks over sand and fancies running with its human.

The Canaan Dog is the national dog of Israel. You might not need a security system if you have one of these guard dogs. They are vigilant and highly territorial, as well as very protective of their family. Their superior sense of smell and hearing can identify non-family members from a considerable distance. “Canaan Dogs are a sturdy breed. They need an alpha at all times, but they’re great with other animals after a good amount of training and socialisation,” says O’Neill. “If you want to hike, run, or play, the Canaan Dog is a great fit, as they can easily keep up.”

Looking for a dog breed that’s excited to see you when you get home yet independent enough not to make you its entire world? The rare and wonderful Otterhound could be the perfect match for you – if you can find one. O’Neill says there are only about 600 in the world. “This breed is fun and great with kids! They have a great expression and are very active,” she adds. Activities aren’t limited to dry land when you have an Otterhound. Their waterproof coat and webbed feet come in handy on the trails or in the water. And they have a highly sensitive nose that allows them to follow a scent trail even underwater.