Dog breed popularity changes over time. Some breeds become household favorites because of movies, social media, changing lifestyles, or shifting preferences, while others gradually become less common.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) tracks breed registrations in the United States, providing a useful picture of which breeds are widely represented and which remain relatively uncommon. A breed becoming less popular doesn’t necessarily mean there is anything wrong with it. In many cases, these dogs simply have characteristics that require a particular type of owner, such as high exercise needs, specialized training, grooming, or plenty of space.
Some of these less-common breeds are incredibly affectionate, intelligent, athletic, and devoted. For the right household, their rarity may actually be part of their appeal.
Here are 15 dog breeds that have become less common or remain among the less frequently registered breeds, along with the qualities that make each one distinctive.
1. Bloodhound
Bloodhounds are famous for their extraordinary sense of smell and their long history as scent-tracking dogs. Their loose facial skin, long ears, and distinctive appearance make them instantly recognizable.
They are particularly well known for their ability to follow scent trails and have been used in search-and-rescue and tracking work.
However, owning a Bloodhound isn’t necessarily easy. These large dogs need regular exercise and plenty of mental stimulation. Their independent nature can also make training challenging for inexperienced owners.
Their size, strength, and distinctive hound characteristics may make them less suitable for people living in smaller homes or looking for a low-maintenance companion.
Still, for an owner who appreciates the breed’s abilities and personality, the Bloodhound can be an extraordinary dog.
2. Collie
Collies became internationally famous thanks in part to the fictional dog Lassie. For generations, the breed was associated with intelligence, loyalty, courage, and devotion to family.
Today, Collies don’t have the same mainstream popularity they once enjoyed.
One possible consideration for potential owners is grooming. Their beautiful coats require regular care, particularly in the variety with a fuller, longer coat.
Collies are intelligent and generally eager to work with their families, making training an enjoyable activity when approached positively.
Their popularity may have changed, but their combination of intelligence, athleticism, and affection continues to attract dedicated owners.
3. Irish Setter
Few dogs are as visually striking as the Irish Setter.
Known for their rich red coats and energetic personalities, Irish Setters were developed as sporting dogs and have plenty of energy to burn.
That athletic nature can be wonderful for active households, but it may be challenging for someone searching for a calm dog that requires relatively little exercise.
Irish Setters benefit from opportunities to run, play, explore, and participate in activities with their families. They are often friendly and outgoing, but their enthusiasm can be overwhelming without sufficient exercise and training.
For active dog lovers, however, their energy is part of what makes them special.
4. Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is a strong, athletic sporting breed with a natural affinity for water.
Originally developed to retrieve waterfowl in challenging conditions, the breed is known for endurance, swimming ability, and a weather-resistant coat.
Chessies can be devoted family companions, but they are not necessarily the easiest choice for a first-time dog owner.
They generally need regular physical activity, mental stimulation, training, and meaningful interaction with their families.
Their working-dog background means they tend to do best when they have appropriate outlets for their energy and abilities.
5. English Foxhound
English Foxhounds were developed for endurance and scent-based hunting. Their athletic build allows them to cover significant distances, and they have historically worked as part of packs.
Those same qualities can make them challenging household companions for people with sedentary lifestyles.
English Foxhounds require substantial exercise and may have a strong instinct to follow interesting scents. A secure environment is particularly important because a dog with a powerful desire to explore may not reliably stay close when an enticing scent catches its attention.
Their specialized history helps explain why they are far less commonly seen in ordinary homes than some other breeds.
6. Belgian Tervuren
The Belgian Tervuren is one of the Belgian Shepherd varieties and is known for intelligence, athleticism, and a strong willingness to work.
These dogs can excel in obedience, agility, herding, and other activities that challenge both their bodies and minds.
That intelligence comes with a responsibility for owners. A Belgian Tervuren generally needs more than a quick walk around the block to stay satisfied.
Without enough activity and engagement, a highly intelligent working dog can become bored.
For someone looking for a relaxed companion with minimal daily demands, the breed may not be an obvious match. For an active owner who enjoys training and canine sports, its abilities can be a major attraction.
7. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is one of the most unusual-looking terriers.
This small breed has a long body, short legs, large expressive eyes, and a distinctive topknot of hair on its head.
Dandie Dinmonts are affectionate with their families but can retain the independent and determined qualities associated with terriers.
They benefit from patient, consistent training and early socialization.
Their unusual appearance and relatively low profile mean that many people may never encounter one outside specialized dog circles.
That rarity has made the breed something of a hidden gem among dog enthusiasts.
8. Harrier
The Harrier is a medium-sized scent hound historically developed for hunting hare.
Although it shares some characteristics with more familiar hounds, the Harrier is considerably less recognizable to the average dog owner.
These dogs are energetic, social, and built for endurance. They generally need plenty of exercise and may enjoy activities that allow them to use their natural scenting abilities.
Because of their history as hunting and pack dogs, they may not be ideal for owners who want a very low-energy pet.
However, an active family looking for an unusual canine companion may find the Harrier an interesting option.
9. Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is a hardy Nordic breed with a history that stretches back centuries.
Its thick coat and sturdy build reflect its Scandinavian heritage, while its alert expression and upright ears give it the classic spitz appearance.
Norwegian Elkhounds are intelligent and energetic. They can also be independent, which means training may require patience and consistency.
Their thick double coat requires regular grooming, particularly during periods of seasonal shedding.
They can make engaging companions for people who enjoy outdoor activities and are prepared to meet the needs of an active northern breed.
10. Saluki
The Saluki is an ancient sighthound recognized for its elegant appearance, athletic build, and remarkable speed.
Historically associated with hunting in the Middle East, Salukis were bred to pursue fast-moving prey across open terrain.
Modern Saluki owners still need to understand the breed’s athletic instincts. These dogs benefit from opportunities to exercise safely, but because of their chase instinct, free running should only happen in secure areas.
Salukis can also be more reserved than some highly social breeds.
Their quiet, graceful nature appeals strongly to people who appreciate sighthounds, but their specific characteristics may explain why they remain relatively uncommon.
11. Borzoi
The Borzoi is another elegant sighthound, famous for its long muzzle, silky coat, and graceful movement.
Historically associated with Russia, the breed was developed for speed and hunting.
Despite their impressive athletic abilities, Borzois can be surprisingly gentle and calm inside the home.
Their large size and long coat, however, require owners to be prepared for more space and regular grooming.
They also have a natural instinct to chase moving animals, so safe management is important when they are outside.
The Borzoi may not be a common sight at the local dog park, but enthusiasts of the breed appreciate its distinctive combination of elegance and gentle companionship.
12. Skye Terrier
The Skye Terrier is a small but sturdy breed with an unmistakable silhouette.
Its long coat, elongated body, and distinctive appearance make it stand out among terriers.
Skyes are known for their loyalty toward their families, although they can be more reserved around unfamiliar people.
Their coat requires regular maintenance, and prospective owners should be prepared to invest time in grooming.
The breed’s declining visibility doesn’t mean it lacks personality. Rather, the Skye Terrier has become a relatively uncommon choice compared with more familiar terrier breeds.
For people who enjoy rare breeds, that individuality can be a major attraction.
13. Otterhound
The Otterhound is one of the rarest and most distinctive hound breeds.
Originally developed in Britain for hunting otters, the breed has a rough, water-resistant coat, webbed feet, and an excellent sense of smell.
Otterhounds were designed for demanding work around water, so they are not naturally suited to a sedentary lifestyle.
They can be energetic, playful, and independent, while their size and coat mean owners need to be prepared for considerable grooming and general care.
Their historical purpose has largely disappeared, which has contributed to their rarity.
Today, Otterhounds are primarily appreciated as unusual companion animals by dedicated breed enthusiasts.
14. American Water Spaniel
The American Water Spaniel is a versatile sporting breed that was developed in the United States, particularly for hunting and retrieving.
Its curly or wavy coat provides protection around water, while its compact athletic build allows it to work in different environments.
These dogs are intelligent and capable of learning a wide range of activities.
However, they generally need regular physical and mental exercise. They may be happiest with owners who enjoy hiking, swimming, retrieving games, training, or other outdoor activities.
Compared with extremely popular sporting breeds such as the Labrador Retriever, the American Water Spaniel remains much less familiar to the general public.
15. Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter is a striking sporting breed recognized by its black-and-tan coloring and substantial build.
These dogs were developed as hunting companions and are known for endurance, intelligence, and devotion to their families.
Their athletic background means they benefit from regular exercise and opportunities to stay mentally engaged.
Their longer coat also requires routine grooming.
Gordon Setters can be affectionate and loyal companions, but their combination of exercise needs, size, and grooming requirements may make them less attractive to people seeking a low-maintenance dog.
For active households, however, these same qualities can make the breed an excellent partner for outdoor adventures.
Why Are Some Dog Breeds Becoming Less Popular?
There isn’t one universal reason a dog breed becomes less common.
Popularity can be influenced by changes in people’s lifestyles, housing, work schedules, family structures, and preferences.
For example, people living in apartments may look for smaller breeds, while busy owners may prefer dogs with relatively straightforward grooming and exercise requirements.
Working and hunting breeds can also become less common when fewer people participate in the activities for which those dogs were originally developed.
Media exposure can have an effect as well. A popular movie, television show, celebrity dog, or social-media trend can suddenly increase interest in a particular breed.
At the same time, breeds without that exposure may gradually become less familiar to new generations of dog owners.
Does a Decline in Popularity Mean a Breed Is a Bad Pet?
Not at all.
Popularity and suitability are two different things.
A breed can be relatively uncommon while still making an excellent companion for the right household.
The more important question is whether a dog’s temperament, exercise requirements, grooming needs, training characteristics, and size fit the owner’s lifestyle.
Someone who loves hiking may appreciate an energetic sporting or hound breed. Another person may prefer a smaller companion with different daily requirements.
Rather than choosing a dog because it is fashionable, prospective owners should learn about the individual breed and consider whether its needs match their circumstances.
Why Rare Dog Breeds Can Be Special
Choosing a less-common breed can introduce you to characteristics that aren’t always found in the most popular dogs.
These breeds often have fascinating histories and specialized abilities that reflect the jobs they were originally developed to perform.
Some are exceptional scent hounds. Others are skilled sporting dogs, herders, terriers, or sighthounds.
Their unusual qualities can make them rewarding companions for owners who are willing to understand and accommodate their needs.
However, rarity should never be the only reason to choose a dog. Responsible breeders, breed-specific rescues, and shelters can help potential owners learn whether a particular breed is appropriate for their household.
Final Thoughts
Dog breed popularity will continue to change as people’s lifestyles and preferences evolve.
Bloodhounds, Collies, Irish Setters, Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, English Foxhounds, Belgian Tervurens, and the other breeds on this list may not be as commonly seen as some of today’s most popular dogs, but each has qualities that have earned it a dedicated following.
A breed’s popularity doesn’t determine its ability to be a loving companion.
For prospective dog owners, the better starting point is to look beyond trends and learn about a dog’s individual personality, exercise requirements, grooming needs, training characteristics, and health considerations.
Sometimes the less familiar breed is the one that introduces you to an entirely new kind of canine companionship.
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