The 5 Best Medicated Dog Shampoos in 2024
14 Dog Breeds With Curly Tails
Learn all about the pups with this adorable feature.
Few traits rival the charm of a dog with a curly tail. This trait arises from the unique structure of a dog's tail vertebrae. Normally, the vertebrae that make up a dog's tail are somewhat rounded, but dogs with curly tails have tail vertebrae that resemble wedges (called hemivertebrae). When these wedge-shaped vertebrae stack on top of one another, a curl is formed.
Curly tails come in various forms, ranging from tightly coiled corkscrews to loosely curled shapes with more flexibility. You can find curly tails on dogs of all sizes, from small to large.
Despite sharing a common trait, each curly-tailed breed brings its own unique qualities and personalities to the table, so we can't generalize their characteristics. Instead, let's dive deeper into the individual breeds. (And don't worry—curly tails can still wag—as best as they can, at least!)
Here are 14 dogs with curly tails that are sure to wind their way into your heart.
Alf Jönsson / Getty Images
With their iconic wrinkled faces and compact bodies, pugs are small dogs that were originally bred to be companions to China's ruling families. They have a tight, spiral-like tail that curls over their back, resembling a cinnamon roll. The tail sometimes uncurls, a sign that the dog may be tired, stressed, relaxed, unwell, or (some pet parents swear) guilty of something. An elderly pug can have a looser tail, too. Pugs are known for their outgoing, goofy personalities and tend to get along well with a wide variety of humans (including kids) and animals.
Breed OverviewGroup: Toy (AKC)
Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Charming, funny, loving, mischievous, laid-back
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Smooth, short coat in fawn or black
Life Span: 13 to 15 years
Hans Surfer / Moment / Getty Images
Medium to large-sized, Siberian huskies were originally bred in Siberia for sled pulling and companionship. They have striking blue or multi-colored eyes and a thick double coat. Their tail can appear mostly straight, curved, or kinked, usually depending on their mood. When curled, their fluffy tail gracefully curves over their back. Siberian huskies tend to do well with kids and other dogs but require lots of exercise and mental stimulation, so they're best suited for active individuals or families.
Breed OverviewGroup: Working (AKC)
Height: 21 to 23.5 inches (male); 20 to 22 inches (female)
Weight: 45 to 60 pounds (male); 35 to 50 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Outgoing, mischievous, playful, vocal, independent
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Medium-length, double coat in white, black, or a combination of white with red, black & tan, gray, brown, agouti, black, or sable
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
TatyanaTitova / Getty Images
These pint-sized bundles of fluff are toy-sized dogs that were made popular by royal pet parents in the 18th century. A Pomeranian's heavily plumed tail curls upward and rolls backward, resting on the dog's back like a fan. This compact breed often forms strong bonds with their families, delighting those around them with their charming antics. A Pomeranian is an excellent choice for those seeking a quirky companion with moderate exercise needs and a lot of love to give.
Breed OverviewGroup: Toy (AKC)
Height: 6 to 7 inches
Weight: 3 to 7 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Inquisitive, lively, bold, affectionate
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Long, double coat in red, orange, white, cream, blue, sable, brindle, black, chocolate, and tri-colored
Life Span: 12 to 16 years
Akitas are large dogs that were originally bred in Japan as hunting and guard dogs. Akitas have a plush tail that typically curls over their back. The set of each dog's tail is unique and very few look the same. Akitas require consistent, positive-reinforcement training due to their strong-willed personalities, and may not always get along well with other animals. With their high energy, they also require long, daily walks.
Breed OverviewGroup: Working (AKC)
Height: 26 to 28 inches (male); 24 to 26 inches (female)
Weight: 100-130 pounds (male); 70-100 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Loyal, introverted, intelligent, protective, independent
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Medium-length double coat in fawn, red, white, brown brindle, with or without a black overlay, and all black.
Life Span: 10 to 14 years
Johner Images / Getty Images
The Finnish spitz (aka Finkie) is a rare, medium-sized dog breed that was originally used in Finland for hunting birds and small game. They have a fox-like appearance with a striking red coat, pointed ears, and a plumed tail that curls over their back. Finnish spitz dogs are intelligent and independent and often exhibit a strong prey drive. They're a good choice for active individuals or families, including those with kids.
Breed OverviewGroup: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: 17.5 to 20 inches (male); 15.5 to 18 inches (female)
Weight: 25 to 33 pounds (male); 20 to 28 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Good-natured, friendly, lively, affectionate
Energy Level: High
Coat and Color: Medium-length double coat in red, gold, or red gold
Life Span: 13 to 15 years
Maria Itina / Getty Images
Not particularly well-known, Basenjis are small dogs that were originally bred in Central Africa for hunting small game. This ancient breed shares many characteristics with wild dogs, but interestingly, they don't bark—they produce a yodel-like sound instead. A Basenji's distinctive features include a wrinkled forehead, erect ears, short, fine fur, and a tightly curled tail that loops back over the dog's backside. They're energetic and alert dogs that bond closely with their humans but may be less friendly toward other animals.
Breed OverviewGroup: Hound (AKC)
Height: 17 inches (male); 16 inches (female)
Weight: 24 pounds (male); 22 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Independent, intelligent, poised, active
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Short, smooth coat in white with sable, black, black tan, brindle, red, black brindle, blue cream, mahogany tan, or cream
Life Span: 13 to 14 years
Christmas w/a K / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0
Despite their name, American Eskimo dogs are small dogs that originated in Germany as companions and guard dogs. This breed comes in three varieties: toy, miniature, and standard. Distinctive features include a dense, bright white coat with a lion-like ruff around the chest and shoulders and a plumed tail that curves over the back. American Eskimo dogs are eager to please, but they can be a bit territorial. They're well-suited for active individuals and families looking for a loyal playmate.
Breed OverviewGroup: Non-Sporting (AKC)
Height: 9 to 12 inches (toy); 12 to 15 inches (miniature); 15 to 19 inches (standard)
Weight: 6 to 10 pounds (toy); 10 to 20 pounds (miniature); 25 to 35 pounds (standard)
Personality/Temperament: Loyal, smart, social, affectionate, playful
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Medium-length double coat in white or white and biscuit
Life Span: 13 to 15 years
With their thick, red coat and pointed ears, Shiba Inus are small dogs that were originally bred in Japan for hunting small game. They are the smallest and oldest of the native Japanese breeds. A Shiba Inu's tail curls upward toward the back to form a small curl. These dogs are intelligent and fiercely loyal to their families. They're best suited for experienced pet parents who can provide consistent training, exercise, and socialization.
Breed OverviewGroup: Non-sporting (AKC)
Height: 14.5 to 16.5 inches (male); 13.5 to 15.5 inches (female)
Weight: 23 pounds (male); 17 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Active, attentive, affectionate, protective, loyal
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Short, double coat in cream, red, sesame, or black & tan
Life Span: 13 to 16 years
Samoyeds originated in Siberia where they were used by the Samoyedic people as sled dogs and reindeer herders. You can't miss their fluffy, cloud-like tail that curls over the back. This breed tends to have a gentle and affectionate nature (they aren't called "smiling Sammies" for nothing). Samoyeds are active, intelligent, social, and good with children, thriving in the company of their people.
Breed OverviewGroup: Working (AKC)
Height: 21 to 23.5 inches (male); 19 to 21 inches (female)
Weight: 45 to 65 pounds (male); 35 to 50 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Social, cheery, gentle, adaptable, affectionate, protective, playful
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Long, double coat in white, biscuit, cream, and white & biscuit
Life Span: 12 to 14 years
Chow Chows are medium-sized dogs that first came on the scene in China where they were used for hunting, guarding, and pulling carts. They're powerful, compactly built dogs with dense fur, a lion-like mane, a distinctive blue-black tongue, and a thickly furred tail that curls over their back. They're affectionate with their people but can sometimes be aggressive with other animals. They do best in calm homes with experienced pet parents who can provide consistent training and lots of grooming.
Breed OverviewGroup: Non-sporting (AKC)
Height: 17 to 20 inches
Weight: 45 to 70 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Aloof, loyal, intelligent, independent, protective
Energy Level: Medium
Coat and Color: Medium-length, smooth or rough double coat in cream, red, cinnamon, black, and blue
Life Span: 8 to 12 years
LiuMeiLi/iStock/Getty Images
Immensely strong, Alaskan Malamutes originated in Alaska as sled dogs and hunting companions for the Inuit people. With a wolf-like appearance, defining characteristics of this breed include a very thick coat, pointed ears, a broad head, and a plume-like tail that curls over their back. They have a friendly and outgoing personality and love outdoor adventures, making them excellent for families or individuals looking for an active dog who loves to play and explore.
Breed OverviewGroup: Working (AKC)
Height: 25 inches (male); 23 inches (female)
Weight: 85 pounds (male); 75 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Loyal, playful, independent, strong-willed
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Medium-length, double coat in white with gray, black, red, seal, silver, sable, blue, or agouti, or all white
Life Span: 10 to 14 years
Daniela Duncan/Getty Images
Small to medium-sized with a plumed and gracefully curled tail, the Keeshond breed was established in Holland in the 18th century as watchdogs and companions. They're known for their alertness, affectionate nature, and adaptability. They tend to get along with most humans (including kids) and animals, making them a seamless addition to the family.
Breed OverviewGroup: Non-sporting (AKC)
Height: 18 inches (male); 17 inches (female)
Weight: 35 to 45 pounds
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, lively, devoted, affectionate, protective
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Long, double coat in black with silver, gray, or gray cream
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
Tiffany Kelly/Noble Soul Photography / Getty Images
Friendly, confident, and dependable, this medium-sized breed originally helped their human companions with hunting large game such as elk and bear. But, their friendly nature makes them excellent modern-day companions for a variety of people. Norwegian elkhounds have dense, silver-gray coats, sturdy, muscular builds, and tails curling tightly over their backs.
Breed OverviewGroup: Hound (AKC)
Height: 20.5 inches (male); 19.5 inches (female)
Weight: 55 pounds (male); 48 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Friendly, confident, dependable, affectionate, playful, protective
Energy Level: Medium-High
Coat and Color: Medium-length, double coat in black with gray black, silver gray, gray, or silver
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
Jon-Eric Melsæter / Flckr / Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0) License
Norwegian Buhunds are medium-sized dogs that were originally used by the Vikings to herd reindeer and other similar livestock. This breed is still used for their herding expertise today. They're a cold-weather breed characterized by a dense coat, erect ears, and a high-set tail curled in a tight arc over their back. Norwegian Buhunds are known for their intelligence and strong work ethic, so they do best with experienced, active pet parents who can provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation.
Breed OverviewGroup: Herding (AKC)
Height: 17 to 18.5 inches (male); 16 to 17.5 inches (female)
Weight: 31 to 40 pounds (male); 26 to 35 pounds (female)
Personality/Temperament: Confident, smart, perceptive, affectionate, devoted
Energy Level: Medium-high
Coat and Color: Medium-length, double coat in wheaten or black
Life Span: 12 to 15 years
Read the original article on The Spruce Pets.
View comments
25 Large Dog Breeds That Make Great Pets
TosaMeet the Tosa, one of the biggest dog breeds from Japan. These animals were formerly bred for fighting, but thankfully, those days are gone. Now, the Tosa basks in the family life. It's far from a lazy dog breed, though. It takes its role as the stately and vigilant guardian of the family seriously. A properly trained and socialized Tosa is calm and affectionate with its family but naturally suspicious and aloof with strangers.
Remember, the breed was created for dogfighting, so your Tosa might not take too kindly to other animals or humans visiting your home. "They will show increased predator/prey behavior with cats and other small pets and may readily chase small children running around with possibly disastrous consequences due to their strength and large size," says Dr. Bell. In other words, Tosas prefer to be your one and only pet, and it pays to properly train them, especially if you have young kids.
Breed overview Height: 12.5 to 23.5 inches at the shoulder Weight: 100 to 200 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years Tibetan mastiffAre you inviting a lion or a dog to share your home? It's hard to tell with the Tibetan mastiff's formidable size and mane of thick, dense fur. As a member of the working group, it veers on the side of being a large-and-in-charge guardian and independent thinker. It has a strong sense of self and confidently assumes it is an equal, not a pet. Yet the Tibetan mastiff is also mellow and very affectionate with its human family, dependent on their companionship to be happy and to avoid mischief. If these dogs are apart from you and alone for too long, they'll find ways to entertain themselves that aren't constructive. (Read: Huge dog, huge mess.)
Breed overview Height: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder Weight: 70 to 150 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years Brian Stubbs/Getty Images Things to know before adopting a large dog breedYou've probably already thought about whether you have enough space for a huge dog, but there are a few more details to consider before adopting one of these large dog breeds. For starters, giant dogs wolf down a lot of food. "A dog who weighs 100 pounds eats almost five cups a day of commercial dog kibble; then add about one-third cup more for every 10 pounds over 100 pounds," says Lyndsey Larson, VMD, ABVP, a veterinarian at VCA Firehouse Animal Hospital in Denver.
Because of their size, the biggest dog breeds also require more medicine, including flea and tick preventatives. And big dogs make bigger messes with their fur, slobber and paws. All in all, you may need a bigger car, bigger poop bags or scoops, bigger crates, bigger dog beds and bigger muscles to deal with your extra-large pet. These are just a few weighty factors to consider when thinking about how much it will cost to own a dog of this size.
The largest dog breeds' puppy stageSmaller dogs generally reach their full size at around 12 months. The largest dog breeds take their time reaching their adult weight, hitting maturity between 18 and 24 months old.
Behavior and training challenges are magnified when you have a huge dog, so training during the impressionable puppy stage is essential. "A good rule of thumb is to get a large-breed pet into a training program and support those good habits at home between the ages of 16 weeks and one year," says Dr. Larson.
The largest dog breeds' life spanAlthough the reasons aren't entirely clear, most giant dog breeds have shorter life spans. They age more quickly, thus developing age-related diseases, such as osteoarthritis, earlier. This can make it difficult for them to get around or climb stairs. You may eventually need a ramp or a special lifting harness to help them up and down stairs or into a car. And with big dogs, knowing how to pick up a dog safely without hurting them or yourself is vital.
Why trust usAt Reader's Digest, we're committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece on large dog breeds, Lisa Marie Conklin tapped her experience as a reporter who has covered dogs and pets for seven years, and then Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science, gave it a rigorous review to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. For this piece, we relied on reputable primary sources and experts, including practicing veterinarians. We verified all facts and data and backed them with credible sourcing, and we will revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
Sources:
23 Rare Dog Breeds You Probably Don't Know About
23 Rare Dog Breeds You Probably Don't Know AboutSkip to main content
What makes these dog breeds rare?Want a rare dog that stands paws apart from the other dogs at the dog park? Well, we have some adorable and unique dog breeds you'll go barking mad over. Fair warning: You may have to wait before you get one, as from a huge number of dog breeds, some of these breeds may be hard to come by.
What makes these breeds rare? Simply put, it's a numbers game. First off, certain dogs may be scarce because the intended purpose of the dog is no longer needed—for instance, dogs that were bred for herding or hunting specific animals or birds. Another reason there are rare dog breeds is that there just aren't that many of that breed at the moment. Although some of these dogs may be more expensive breeds because of their rarity, these special dogs are every bit as lovable as the most popular dog breeds.
Get Reader's Digest's Read Up newsletter for more pet insights, cleaning, humor, travel, tech and fun facts all week long.
About the expertsReviewed for accuracy by: Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science. She's the author of 34 books, including Barron's Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds.
Lena Gadanski/Getty Images 1. Lagotto RomagnoloCurly-haired Italian dog breeds are so darn cute and cuddly, and the Lagotto Romagnolo is no exception. "Their name means 'water dog' in Italian, but they are commonly called 'truffle dogs' because they are used to hunt for truffles," explains Catherine Lenox, DVM, the scientific affairs manager at Royal Canin. In fact, the Lagotto Romagnolo is the only purebred in the world recognized as a specialized truffle searcher. Truffle hunters or not, they are warm and friendly companions.
Breed overview Height: 16 to 19 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 24 to 35 pounds Life expectancy: 13 to 15 years 2. SloughiYou can see why this unique dog is nicknamed the "Arabian greyhound," as the resemblance is uncanny—and they are one of the fastest dog breeds in existence. "Originally from North Africa, where they were bred to hunt game such as gazelles, Sloughi make somewhat reserved pets and may require some extra socialization to warm up around strangers," says Dr. Lenox.
Yet, they form a closely knit bond with their person or family. Because of their hunting genes, they might not make the best roommates with smaller animals and birds unless introduced to them at an early age.
Breed overview Height: 24 to 29 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 35 to 50 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 15 years Nilnate Nilprasit/Getty Images 3. Kai KenWe can't get enough of super cute Japanese dog breeds, including the Kai Ken. Their showstopping, striking brindle coat is uniquely beautiful.
"Nicknamed 'Tora Dog' (tora is Japanese for 'tiger'), this breed is athletic—the Kai Ken tends to be a good swimmer and climber," says Dr. Lenox. They are exceptionally clever and devoted to their family. As one of the six native Japanese breeds, they are one of the rarest dogs in the world. The Kai Ken became a designated national treasure of Japan in 1934 and is protected by law.
Breed overview Height: 15.5 to 19.5 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 20 to 40 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years Vasiliy Popov/Getty Images 4. Australian kelpieWhen it comes to herding sheep, the Australian kelpie is the blue-chip candidate for rounding up the herd, whether the herd consists of sheep, other dogs or kids. It's outgoing and friendly, but also a workaholic and brainiac that requires loads of exercise and mental stimulation. For that reason, the kelpie isn't a breed for a first-time dog parent or a family with young children, which may partly explain why it's so rare.
Breed overview Height: 17 to 20 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 24 to 44 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 13 years 5. Bavarian mountain scent houndThe Bavarian mountain scent hound, a German breed with superior tracking ability, can differentiate between a wounded animal it is hunting and other animals of the same species. The BMSH needs lots of space to roam and expend their energy, and they're not keen on spending time away from family in a kennel. "They are calm and devoted to their families, but they need an experienced owner," says Mary Burch, PhD, an animal behaviorist with the American Kennel Club (AKC) Family Dog Program.
Breed overview Height: 17 to 20.5 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 37.5 to 55 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years 6. Estrela mountain dogThe Estrela mountain dog is one of the oldest breeds in Portugal and one of the biggest dog breeds in the world. Rare dog breeds often make the best companions, and the Estrela is no exception.
"Much like the Leonberger, this is a big and sturdy dog with a warm personality," says Mari-Beth O'Neill, vice president of AKC Sports Services. "You do not see dogs like this every day. If you are looking for a dog that is a protector and a playmate, this is it."
Breed overview Height: 24.5 to 29 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 77 to 132 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 14 years 7. Thai ridgebackIt would be incredibly rare to see a Thai ridgeback outside of Thailand. You might mistake a Rhodesian ridgeback for one, as both have the trademark ridge of hair on their back that grows in the opposite direction of their coat.
Thai ridgebacks are faithful companions and exhibited their devotion to family back in the day by keeping cobras away from their humans, killing the dangerous snake if necessary. "While Thai ridgebacks can be loyal pets, they are independent and protective and are not the best choice for the first-time dog owner," says Burch.
Breed overview Height: 20 to 24 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 35 to 75 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 13 years CaptureLight/Getty Images 8. Norwegian lundehundThe Norwegian lundehund was the one-and-only dog breed created to hunt puffins, yes, puffins. "Now that puffins are an environmentally protected species, Norwegian lundehunds have become loyal family dogs that usually have six toes on each foot instead of the usual four," says Dr. Lenox.
They may no longer need their extra toes for scaling rocky coastlines, but the extra digits could prove useful in agility courses. Lundehunds are an easy-to-live-with breed, as long as their day is full of activities to expend their boundless energy. Almost extinct twice in their history, they are again close. Some breeders are advocating crossing to a related breed to widen their gene pool and combat some digestive issues.
Breed overview Height: 12 to 15 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 20 to 30 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years 9. Bergamasco sheepdogOf all the rare dog breeds, the "flocks" on the Bergamasco sheepdog are certainly unique, with hair that makes them look like a mop. How is that hair even natural? But it is, and it happens because the strands of hair get woven together, creating flat layers of felted hair that cover the body and legs.
Surprisingly, the flocks don't shed and aren't as hard to maintain as they look, O'Neill says. Bergamascos proudly take up their post as calm and watchful guardians of the family. They're accommodating and trainable, with just a wee bit of mountain dog independence. Overall, the Bergamasco is a healthy and low-maintenance dog breed.
Breed overview Height: 22 to 23.5 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 57 to 84 pounds Life expectancy: 13 to 15 years Klaus Feurich/getty images 10. Pyrenean shepherdHow about a muzzle snuggle from this cute scruffy face? The Pyrenean shepherd is a bright-eyed dog with a perpetual smile. The breed is a great candidate for agility, rally, obedience, dock diving, freestyle work and almost any fun dog sport. Devoted to their family, the Pyrenean has an intuitive sense about their owner's desires and does particularly well with clicker training and positive, reward-based methods. They're also one of the dog breeds that live the longest.
Breed overview Height: 15 to 18.5 inches (rough faced), 15.5 to 21 (smooth faced), at the shoulder Weight: 15 to 30 pounds Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years Vincent Scherer/Getty Images 11. Biewer terrierPronounced like "beaver," the Biewer terrier is one of the cutest little lap dog breeds you ever did see. Its sole purpose is to love and be loved. Biewers have that swoon factor of being adorably innocent when they nonchalantly pick up your slipper or their favorite toy and carry it around. They're ever so charming and friendly, making friends with everyone they meet, including dogs they don't know.
This unique dog breed won't stay rare for long. It's seeing a growing amount of interest, says Jerry Klein, DVM, chief veterinary officer of the AKC. According to the AKC, Biewers are also "the first breed to be recognized as a breed of its own (purebred) using advancements in science rather than the traditional process of pedigree documentation."
Breed overview Height: 7 to 11 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 4 to 8 pounds Life expectancy: 16 years Sue Thatcher/Getty Images 12. Cesky terrierYou know you're top dog if your picture is on a postage stamp and you're the national dog of your country. The contemplative eyes and distinguished beard of the Czech Republic's Cesky terrier convey a stately and dignified vibe. Yet the terrier is no stuffy politician.
"They are a pack breed, which means they would fit well with other dogs, and they love to play and are great companions with their family," says Dr. Klein. The Cesky isn't a breed you'll bump into at the dog park—there are only about 600 of them in the United States.
Breed overview Height: 10 to 13 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 14 to 24 pounds Life expectancy: 13 to 15 yearsAlso, don't miss out on these 15 adorable Wire-Haired Dog Breeds—ready to be your family's new best friends!
Kathryn Doomy/Getty Images 13. Belgian LaekenoisThe Belgian Laekenois is the rarest of the four native Belgian shepherds (including the Belgian sheepdog, Malinois and Tervuren) in the United States. If you can get your hands on one, you'll never want to stop snuggling 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.
Breed overview Height: 22 to 26 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 40 to 80 pounds Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years Stefan Rousseau - PA Images/Getty Images 14. Portuguese podengoThe Portuguese podengo comes in two different sizes, and back in the day, each size had its own job. The larger one hunted deer and boar, while the medium hunted rabbits. Chasing and hunting are in their genes, so they're wired to run and play until they drop. As far as family life goes, they hit all the high marks as warm and friendly companions that are open to friendships with new people and dogs. They have few genetics problems, so you probably won't have to visit the vet as often.
Breed overview Height: 16 to 22 inches (medium), 22 to 28 (large), at the shoulder Weight: 35 to 44 pounds (medium), 44 to 66 (large) Life expectancy: 10 to 15 years 15. Treeing Tennessee brindleThe Treeing Tennessee brindle hails from the United States, mainly in and around the Appalachian and Ozark Mountains. Noted for their brindle coat, TTBs are also alert, agile and super fast. They have an inherent instinct to hunt, and they "tree" their prey by forcing it up into a tree. Once they have the prey isolated, they alert their human by baying. According to the AKC, the old saying "You're barking up the wrong tree" comes from this type of hunting.
For non-hunting humans, TTBs love agility training, going out for walks several times a day, playing games inside (like hide-and-seek) and chasing balls.
Breed overview Height: 16 to 24 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 30 to 50 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years sjallenphotography/Getty Images 16. Teddy Roosevelt terrierThe 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 honor 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 other 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.
Breed overview Height: 8 to 15 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 8 to 25 pounds Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years 17. Peruvian Inca OrchidIf the great outdoors makes you feel icky, then the Peruvian Inca Orchid, a hairless dog breed, could be the perfect canine BFF for you. They come in three different sizes, and their delicate, hairless bodies don't fare 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 though: 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.
Breed overview Height: 9.75 to 25.75 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 8.5 to 55 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years CaptureLight/Getty Images 18. Dandie Dinmont terrierThe only dog breed named for 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 book is much easier to find these days than the dog, however.
"There are few breeds in the United States rarer than the Dandie Dinmont terrier," says Dr. Klein. "The breed is small but not dainty, lovable and playful but still tough, and amongst the most docile of the terriers. They would make an excellent apartment 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."
Breed overview Height: 8 to 11 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 18 to 24 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years 19. SalukiThe Saluki's slim and leggy appearance is naturally adept for swiftness and agility—skills they needed thousands of years ago as the favorite hunting hound of Egyptian pharaohs. In fact, they were so highly esteemed that Salukis were often mummified like the bodies of the pharaohs themselves. The only things most Salukis hunt for these days are toys and your affection, but give them a chance and they'll chase just about anything. In fact, they're still used in the Middle East to hunt gazelle and in the western United States to hunt jackrabbits.
Breed overview Height: 23 to 28 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 40 to 65 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 14 years 20. AzawakhAt first glance, you might think we showed you the same rare dog breed twice. "Easily confused with a Saluki, the Azawakh (pronounced AZ-uh-wahk) 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 favors sidewalks over sand and fancies running with its human. While the Azawakh has been gracefully walking the earth for thousands of years, it was only recently recognized as an AKC breed in the Hound Group, in 2019.
Breed overview Height: 23.5 to 29 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 33 to 55 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years 21. Canaan dogThe Canaan dog is one of the AKC's oldest breeds and also 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 socialization," says O'Neill. "If you want to hike, run or play, the Canaan dog is a great fit, as they can easily keep up."
Breed overview Height: 19 to 24 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 35 to 55 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 15 years LourdesPhotography/Getty Images 22. OtterhoundLooking 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, wire-haired 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.
Breed overview Height: 24 to 27 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 80 to 115 pounds Life expectancy: 10 to 13 years 23. BologneseNope, we're not talking about the delicious Italian meat sauce—although the Bolognese breed was developed in Bologna, Italy. The Bolo, as fans call it, is a 5-to-9-pound lapdog that relishes a low-key and leisurely lifestyle, meaning that pet parents don't have to worry about providing too much exercise. A walk or low-energy game is all this faithful and affectionate dog needs. Oh, and though it has a fluffy coat, it doesn't shed much at all, but regular grooming is a must for the full-length cut. The "mophead" look achieved with a shorter cut is easier to maintain and equally adorable.
Breed overview Height: 10 to 12 inches, at the shoulder Weight: 5.5 to 9 pounds Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years Why trust usAt Reader's Digest, we're committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. For this piece, Lisa Marie Conklin tapped her experience covering pet behavior and training, and then Caroline Coile, PhD, an award-winning journalist specializing in canine breeds, health and science, gave it a rigorous review to ensure that all information is accurate and offers the best possible advice to readers. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
Sources:
We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices.
We recommend our users to update the browser.
Comments
Post a Comment