23 Unique Dog Breeds

Komondor

Draped with white cords from head to tail, the Komondor is one of the most distinctive breeds in the world, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). A large male Komondor can stand more than 27.5 inches tall and weigh over 100 pounds, with heavy bone and a lot of muscle.

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Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen

Grand Basset Griffon Vendeen — @Hans Surfer / GETTY IMAGES

Its the demeanor of the Grand Basset Griffon Vendéen that sets it apart from the rest. The breed is is known for its stamina and high strung attitude that has made them legendary hunters in Gallic folklore. The long-faced dog has a shaggy coat with a defined mustache, beard, and eyebrows.

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Belgian Laekenois

The Belgian Laekenois is the rarest of four native dogs of Belgium: the Belgian Sheepdog, Malinois, Tervuren, and Laekenois. The breed is defined by its rough, tousled coat that requires regular brushing and occasional bathing, the AKC reports.

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Puli

Although Puli are similar in appearance to the Komondor, they're two very different breeds. The Puli is a very old Hungarian breed dating back to the Middle Ages. It is speculated that the Puli is one of the direct ancestors of the poodle. To this day, there are a few standard poodles that have corded coats. This breed almost died out during the 17th century but was revived by a group of hobbyists in 1912, according to the AKC.

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Leonberger

The Leonberger's lineage includes St. Bernards and Newfoundlands, which means this unique dog is considered a giant breed. As such, Leonbergers can reach well over 100 pounds. They're affectionate, good with kids, and extremely devoted to owners, who they want to be with as much as possible. Because of their large size, love of muddy water, and amount of attention and exercise needed, you won't frequently find these dogs in urban areas or large towns. The breed can live eight to nine years.

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Bedlington Terrier

A crisp, curly coat and arched back distinguish the Bedlington Terrier from all others. They're an energetic breed that loves attention. This dog breed moves with a light, springy step and when roused can run like the wind, according to the AKC.

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Skye Terrier

This short but long dog breed has signature long-haired fur that covers its eyes. These dogs can be twice as long as they are tall. They're bred for hunting foxes along the remote Isle of Skye of Scotland and are stronger than their size makes them appear, the AKC reports.

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Coton de Tulear

A walking cloud, the Coton de Tulear only grows to around 10 inches tall and gets its name for its soft, cotton-like fur. Known for being a great companion dog, this breed has a reputation for forming close bonds to its owners.

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Dandie Dinmont Terrier

Known for its long torso and short legs, this unique dog breed is as interesting to look at as it is smart. They're alert and intelligent dogs with a proud attitude. Although Dandies weigh no more than 24 pounds, they are highly alert watchdogs with a deep baritone bark, according to the AKC.

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Brussels Griffon

Affectionately dubbed the "bearded dogs," the Brussels Griffon is known for its long hair around the snout and large eyes. While this unique-looking breed is known to be playful and energetic, their sensitivity makes them ideal for adults—not children.

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Cane Corso

The square head, large stature, and stiff coat of the Cane Corse certainly sets it apart from the rest. This breed, which typically weighs more than 100 pounds, it intimidating upon a first glance. But, don't be fooled, Corsi are actually quite affectionate.

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Basenji

This unique breed is said to be among the oldest and most primitive. In fact, diagrams of dogs that look like Basenjis have been found in Egyptian pyramids. One of the most interesting facts about this breed is that, females only come into heat once a year, unlike all other domestic breeds that come into heat twice a year. On top of all this, they rarely bark, preferring to whine and make a yodeling sound instead. Their attentive nature makes them great pets.

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Chinese Crested

The ultimate unique dog breed, the Chinese Crested lands itself in the toy group with a height of up to 13 inches. The dog can be hairless with long fur on the head, tail, and ankles or it can be coated.

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Thai Ridgeback

This dog breed's name comes from its hair pattern, which grows in the opposite direction from the rest of its fur, creating a ridge on its back. According to the AKC, the breed has up to eight different ridge patterns.

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Bergamasco Sheepdog

Unlike an English Sheepdog, this breed has long loose mats of fur, creating a unique texture. In fact, three different textures form the hair to create the matted look of the Bergamasco Sheepdog. They're sociable and loyal dogs, which makes them a great pet.

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Old English Sheepdog

This dog breed's double coat makes its fur the talk of the town. But underneath all that fur is a muscular, gentle, and smart pup. Old English Sheepdogs also have unique eyes (when you can see them)—they're typically born with brown eyes, blue eyes, or one of each, the AKC reports.

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Field Spaniel

This dog breed looks similar to its Cocker, Springer, and Sussex Spaniel cousins, but its long, feather-like ears distinguish the breed from the rest of the pack. Field Spaniels have shiny coats that further add to their distinctiveness.

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Pekingese

Dubbed regal in manor by the AKC, the Pekingese has a rolling gait and is one of several breeds created for the ruling classes of ancient China. Generally, Pekingese grow to only 6 to 9 inches tall and can weigh up to 14 pounds. Its signature long-haired coat makes this breed unique.

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English Foxhound

Known to be affectionate, social, and gentle, the English Foxhound looks like an average dog but has a number of very unique characteristics. The breed was first recognized by the AKC in 1909 and is much stouter than its American counterpart. They make great companions for hunters, as they love a good chase and have an exceptional sense of smell.

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Norwegian Lundehund

This energetic breed is quite unique. Their most defining feature? The fact that they have at least six fully functioning toes on each paw and extra paw pads.

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Pharaoh Hound

Known for its large ears that stick straight up, the Pharaoh Hound was bred to be able to withstand high-speed pursuits on rocky terrain. Its unique ears, short tan coat, and matching tan nose and eyes make the breed extremely striking.

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Schipperke

Similar in looks to the black sheepdog but smaller, the Schipperke was bred to be a barge dog to work the canals of Belgium since the 1800s; that means this breed likes having a job to do. Despite their high energy levels, they adapt very well to household living. Clean and neat, Schipperkes make perfect pets for those people who want a big dog in a small package.

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Salukis

Elegance is the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Salukis. The unique breed's signature long-haired ears and even longer snout make it stand out from all the others at the dog park. They're tall and gentle creatures.

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