We are used to Labradors, spaniels, dachshunds or Yorkshire terriers on the streets - they are popular dogs kept at home by many people. But not all of the approximately 360 breeds have gained such popularity. Some dogs are so rare that meeting them is a real event.

The publication Petplan told about the five least common breeds. Their representatives are so few that they may disappear. Although they are wonderful animals worthy of more attention.

Norwegian Lundehund

An ancient and uniquely characterized breed originates from the islands off the coast of Norway. These dogs have an unusual reddish coloration and are able to hunt ipatoks, brightly colored birds that live on cliffs. Consequently, the Lundenhund can dash over these rocky obstacles. All thanks to six toes on the front paws, movable ears and a very flexible neck. The breed almost disappeared during World War II, but Norwegian breeders made efforts to bring it out of danger. Now they are just very rare dogs. Owners appreciate them for their affectionate and cheerful nature, which makes Lundenhunds great family favorites.

Lagotto-Romagnolo

Curly dogs, somewhat similar to poodles, originate from the Italian region of Romagna. They were bred back in the Middle Ages to hunt ducks in the marshes. Strong, muscular dogs with waterproof coats and a marvelous sense of smell came out. The lagotto romagnolo was later trained to search for truffles and is now the only breed of dog officially trusted with this job. In the 1970s the breed almost disappeared, but Italian specialists revived it. Modern Lagotto-Romagnolo are very intelligent, energetic and communicative, they are easily trained and love long walks. But they do not pass by a single puddle on their way - the "swamp" past has an effect.

Azavak

This graceful and unusually long-legged dog was born on the border between the Sahara Desert and the fertile southern lands of the Sahel region of Africa. It is a unique hunting dog, able to hunt by relying on its eyesight rather than its sense of smell. Azawaks are also excellent guards, as they have long guarded the tents of desert nomads. The character of representatives of the breed is more like a feline - they are very independent, but not too open to communicate with strangers and can be somewhat shy. But a good owner will help such an animal to become more open.

Otterhound

Huge (up to 50 kg) hounds with a characteristic mane of thick hair come from the area on the border of England and Scotland. According to experts, now there are even fewer of them left than white rhinos - the number of dogs does not reach 1000 in the whole world. The name of the breed comes from the English word otter - "otter". They were bred to guard commercial fish from these aquatic predators. But after otter hunting was banned in the UK, otterhounds were no longer needed and the number of dogs began to decline. Although it is a good-natured and funny dog, known for its calm temperament and sensitive nature. This animal will be a great companion on walks, although it will take a lot of cleaning up - Otterhounds are sloppy eaters and love to play in the mud.

Moody

Shaggy dogs were bred in Hungary in the 19th century and are now rarely seen anywhere outside of Eastern Europe. There are less than 1,000 of these dogs left in the world. From the beginning, their job was herding livestock, so they are intelligent, strong, independent and active dogs. Moodies also do well as guard dogs. They are very energetic and inquisitive dogs that love attention and physical contact with their owner. In its characteristics, the breed is more similar to the much more popular Border Collies.

Earlier OBOZREVATEL told about the breeds of dogs that are easiest to train.

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