Top 10 Craziest Dog Breeds from Around the World

‍Top 10 Craziest Dog Breeds

Dogs have always been known as "man's best friend," and throughout the world, we can find a variety of breeds with unique characteristics, appearances, and personalities. Some are known for their fierce loyalty and power, while others may look a bit unusual and capture our attention with their odd appearances.

These peculiar dog breeds are not only visually striking but also come with distinct personalities and capabilities, making them excellent companions and protectors. As we delve into the world of these uncommon canines, their peculiar features and characteristics will leave you amazed. So, without further ado, let's embark on this journey to discover some of the most unusual and awe-inspiring dog breeds found across the globe.

Here's a table comparing the features of the top 10 craziest dog breeds:

1. Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli offers fascinating qualities not found in your average dog breed. Their long history, unique appearance, and special care requirements make them stand out among the weirdest dog breeds from around the world. No wonder they continue to capture the attention and hearts of dog lovers everywhere!

Origin

The Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced "show-low-eats-queen-tlee"), also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, is one of the most unique and ancient dog breeds, dating back over 3,000 years! This fascinating breed is believed to have accompanied the first humans who crossed the Bering Strait to the Americas.

Characteristics

• Hairless or coated variety
• Height: 10-23 inches
• Weight: Toy (10-15 lbs), Miniature (15-30 lbs), Standard (30-55 lbs)
• Lifespan: 13-18 years

What Makes It Unique

If you're wondering what sets the Xoloitzcuintli apart from other dog breeds, here are a few unique traits:

• Ancient history: As one of the oldest dog breeds, Xolos have a rich cultural history, with links to the Aztecs and archaeological evidence connecting them to ancient ruins.
• Skincare: Due to the lack of fur in the hairless variety, Xolos requires special skincare to protect them from sunburn, dryness, and outside elements.
• Warmth: These dogs have been historically used as bed warmers in cold climates, thanks to their warm skin temperature.

2. Bedlington Terrier

If you're looking for unique and fascinating dog breeds, look no further! Among the top craziest dog breeds, the Bedlington Terrier stands out as an unusual and lovable canine with various exciting qualities.

Origin

Originating in England, the Bedlington Terrier has an intriguing background. It's believed to have been bred from sighthounds like the whippet because of its arched back, speed, and agility. This breed also shares a common ancestry with breeds such as the Dandie Dinmont, Kerry Blue, and soft-coated wheaten terriers.

Characteristics

• Size: Medium, weighing 17-23 pounds
• Lifespan: 12-16 years
• Coat: Curly and wooly, can be low-maintenance
• Color: Any color or combination of colors
• Temperament: Playful, loyal, gentle, and friendly

What Makes It Unique

1. Lamb-like Appearance: It's not every day that you see a dog resembling a lamb. The Bedlington Terrier's one-of-a-kind, lamb-like appearance adds to its charm and uniqueness.
2. Speed and Agility: Despite its seemingly delicate appearance, this breed is one of the fastest and most agile of its kind. Its sighthound heritage contributes to these qualities.
3. Distinctive Parentage: With its connections to various other terrier breeds, the Bedlington Terrier has a diverse and fascinating ancestry.
4. Adaptable: Being suited for families with children, active singles, seniors, apartments, and homes with or without yards, this breed adapts well to various environments.

3. Puli

If you're considering adding a Puli to your family, keep in mind that their coat does require a considerable amount of care. But on the bright side, they do look stunning, and their loyal, lovable nature can make them an excellent addition to any household.

Origin

The Puli, also known as the Hungarian Puli, is an ancient dog breed hailing from Hungary. Originally bred as a herding dog, these curly creatures were primarily used to tend sheep and cattle, with their unique coats offering protection from the elements.

Characteristics

• Size: Medium
• Weight: 25 – 35 pounds
• Height: 16 – 17 inches
• Life expectancy: 10 – 15 years
• Coat type: Corded

Some other fascinating attributes of this breed include:

• High intelligence – these pooches are quick learners!
• Energetic nature, thriving on regular exercise
• A loyal and protective demeanor towards their families
• Capable of handling various weather conditions thanks to their unique corded coat

What Makes It Unique

Their distinctive corded coat is what truly sets them apart from other dog breeds. Resembling dreadlocks, the coat can be both a blessing and a challenge for owners, but it's what makes the Puli truly unique.

Wondering how this fascinating coat is formed? It starts as curly fur, which naturally begins to form cords as the dog grows, eventually lengthening into their signature dreadlocks. The corded coat serves several functions, such as:

• Protection from harsh weather conditions
• Shielding against predators and potential injuries
• Giving them a one-of-a-kind appearance

4. Bergamasco (Sheepdog/Shepherd)

The Bergamasco, also known as the Bergamasco Shepherd or Bergamasco Sheepdog, is an extraordinary dog breed that stands out due to its distinctive coat.

Origin

The Bergamasco is a medium-large herding dog breed that hails from Italy. It was initially bred to protect livestock from predators, making it an excellent natural guard dog. Its strong protection instinct ensures that it remains vigilant to any unusual sights or sounds, often alerting its owner with a bark.

Characteristics

• Size: Medium to large, robust, and muscular.
• Coat: A well-proportioned frame with a coat made up of three types of hair - 'dog,' 'goat,' and 'wool.'
• Color: Varies, with shades of gray, silver, fawn, or black.
• Maintenance: The adult Bergamasco coat is virtually maintenance-free, thanks to its naturally forming mats or flocks.

What Makes It Unique

The Bergamasco's coat is what truly sets it apart from other breeds. Its corded coat is composed of three kinds of hair, which naturally form protective mats or flocks on the body. These flocks can be up to 1.5 to 3 inches wide, giving the Bergamasco a distinctive and eye-catching appearance.

Not only does this unique corded coat protect the dog, but it also has some practical benefits:

• Low shedding: Once the flocks have fully formed, the Bergamasco barely sheds, making it a relatively neat breed to have around the home.
• Low maintenance: After the initial period of grooming to develop the flocks, the coat remains relatively low-maintenance and easy to care for.

5. Neapolitan Mastiff

The Neapolitan Mastiff is a unique breed that combines immense size and strength with a gentle, loving nature. They are excellent protectors and loyal friends to their human family, making them an exceptional choice for those seeking a confident and powerful dog with a soft and loving side.

Origin

The Neapolitan Mastiff is an ancient and majestic breed that hails from Italy. They have a rich history, dating back to Roman times, where they were used as war dogs and guardians of estates. Today, they are known for being loyal and protective, making them excellent family pets.

Characteristics

• Males: 26-31 inches tall, weighing 150-200 pounds
• Females: 24-29 inches tall, weighing 120-175 pounds

What Makes It Unique

The Neapolitan Mastiff has a few features that set it apart from other breeds:

• Skin folds: They have loose, wrinkly skin, which is especially prominent around their head and neck. This skin is a historical trait from when they were used as war dogs, as it helped protect them from injuries.
• Loyalty and protectiveness: Neapolitan Mastiffs are fiercely loyal and protective of their owners and families. They are known to be wary of strangers and act as formidable guards, which makes them excellent watchdogs.
• Gentle with family: Despite their large size and intimidating appearance, they are incredibly gentle and loving with their human family members. They form strong bonds with their owners and can be cuddly companions.

6. Catalburun

The Catalburun's remarkable split nose is believed to enhance their sense of smell, making them exceptional hunting dogs. In their native Turkey, these dogs have traditionally been used for hunting game like rabbits and birds.

Origin

Have you ever wondered about one of the strangest dog breeds, the Catalburun? Originating from Tarsus, a city in Turkey, these rare dogs are known for their striking and unusual appearance. Did you know there are less than 200 Catalburuns left in the world?

Characteristics

• Medium-sized with a muscular build
• Short, dense coat that comes in various shades of brown and white
• Clear, dark eyes
• Large, floppy ears
• Distinctive "split nose"

What Makes It Unique

So, what sets the Catalburun apart from other dog breeds? Well, as you might have guessed, it's their split nose! This breed has a fascinating double nose that's truly one-of-a-kind.

7. Cambodian Razorback Dog

The Cambodian Razorback Dog is a unique and fascinating breed that has captured the attention of dog lovers worldwide.

Origin

The Cambodian Razorback Dog hails from Cambodia, as its name suggests. Primarily bred as guard dogs, these canines possess strong territorial instincts, making them excellent protectors of their families and homes. Their origins as guard dogs have also contributed to their sometimes fierce reputation.

Characteristics

• Head: Short, deep, thorough, broad skull, very pronounced cheek muscles, distinct stop, short foreface, and a black nose.
• Eyes: Dark, round, medium-sized, and set to look straight-ahead. Some may even have blue eyes.
• Size: Powerful, agile, and active for its size.

What Makes It Unique

Several factors make the Cambodian Razorback a truly unique dog breed:

1. Strong Territorial Instincts: As mentioned earlier, this breed was bred to be guard dogs, resulting in their natural wariness towards strangers. While they may not be overly friendly towards newcomers, their loyalty towards their families is unparalleled.
2. Unusual Appearance: The Cambodian Razorback has a distinct look, owing to their long hair and powerful, muscular body. Their striking appearance sets them apart from other breeds, making them particularly eye-catching.
3. Rare Breed: While Cambodian Razorbacks are becoming more well-known, they are still a relatively rare breed. This rarity adds to their allure for dog enthusiasts.

8. Lowchen

The Lowchen is a captivating and unique dog breed that stands out for its rarity, appearance, and engaging personality. These little lion dogs are a perfect companion for those seeking an affectionate, intelligent, and versatile canine friend.

Origin

The Lowchen, also known as the Little Lion Dog, has a long history with its place of origin still debated among experts. Some believe it originated in Europe, while others suggest it could have come from ancient civilizations. Though its exact roots may be a mystery, this breed has been around at least since the 1400s, as evidenced by artwork from that era depicting these adorable little lion dogs.

Characteristics

• Small in size, with a height ranging from 12 to 14 inches
• Weighs between 9 to 18 pounds
• Wavy to curly hair that can be dense and moderately soft
• Coloration varies and can include solid colors or a mix of colors such as black, cream, or brown
• Lifespan ranges from 12 to 14 years

What Makes It Unique

The Lowchen stands out among other dog breeds due to its distinct lion-like appearance. This "little lion" look is achieved through a unique grooming technique that creates a mane-like coat and a tuft of fur at the end of the tail, resembling a lion's tail.

Here are a few other factors that contribute to the Lowchen's uniqueness:

• Rare breed: The Lowchen is one of the rarest dog breeds in the world, making it quite a rare gem in the canine world.
• Versatility: These little dogs excel in various activities such as agility, obedience, and therapy work, showcasing their adaptability and intelligence.
• Hypoallergenic: Due to its non-shedding coat, the Lowchen is considered hypoallergenic, making it a suitable choice for people with allergies.

9. Norwegian Lundehund

This friendly and lively dog breed from Norway might catch your eye due to its unique history and quirky characteristics.

Origin

The Norwegian Lundehund hails from Norway and has a rich history dating back centuries. This breed was specifically developed to hunt puffins on the rocky cliffs of Norway's coastal areas. These brave dogs became valuable hunting companions, helping their owners capture the birds from the treacherous cliffs.

Characteristics

• Weight: 13-20 pounds
• Height: 12-15 inches
• Lifespan: 12-14 years
• Coat: Short and dense double coat, slightly thicker around the neck and thighs
• Colors: Sable, fawn, black, or a combination of these colors

What Makes It Unique

1. Extra Toes: This breed has at least six fully-formed toes on each foot! These additional toes give them better grip and stability while climbing the cliffs during puffin hunts.
2. Extreme Flexibility: The Norwegian Lundehund's neck is incredibly flexible, allowing its head to bend backwards and touch its back. This level of flexibility is seldom seen in most other dog breeds and contributes to the Lundehund's agility.
3. Climbing Ability: Thanks to their extra toes and flexible joints, Lundehunds are exceptional climbers with the ability to scale rocky cliffs with ease.
4. Ears: Their ears are unique as they can fold themselves closed, protecting their ear canals from debris and moisture when climbing and hunting.
5. Rarity: The Norwegian Lundehund is considered one of the rarest dog breeds, ranking 197 out of 197 AKC-recognized breeds.

10. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is not just an unusual-looking dog; it's a breed with a rich history and unique characteristics. When considering a pet, it's essential to keep these features in mind and ensure that you can provide the proper care and attention that the breed requires.

Origin

The Chinese Crested is a fascinating and quirky dog breed with an intriguing history. Originating from China, these dogs were beloved by sailors in the 1300s, who valued their excellent rodent-catching abilities on ships. As a result, these dogs traveled extensively, further contributing to their worldwide popularity.

Characteristics

• Size: Small; 11-13 inches (27-33 cm) in height
• Weight: 10-13 lb (4.5-5.9 kg) on average
• Coat: Either hairless or long, silky hair (Powderpuff variety)

What Makes It Unique

• Hairlessness: While many dog breeds have a consistent coat type, the Chinese Crested stands out with its hairless variant. This unusual feature can be a major benefit for allergy sufferers because it minimizes the presence of allergens like dander and loose hair.
• Dental Health: These dogs can have dental issues that are more common in the hairless variety. Ensuring proper dental care is essential for the breed.
• Great for Apartment Living: Due to their small size and easygoing nature, Chinese Crested dogs adapt well to apartment living.
• Exceptional Hunters: Despite their delicate appearance, Chinese Crested dogs are natural-born hunters, known for catching rodents on long sea voyages.

Care Tips for These Dog Breeds

Seeing as you are intrigued by some of the craziest dog breeds from around the world, it's important to know how to care for them. Let's explore some care tips that cover the grooming, exercise, health, nutrition, training, and socialization needs of these unique dogs.

Grooming These peculiar dog breeds often have distinct coats that require special attention. To make it easier, let's divide them into categories:

• Long-haired dogs (e.g., Afghan Hound, Puli): You need to brush their hair regularly, at least 2-3 times a week, to prevent matting and tangles.
• Hairless dogs (e.g., Peruvian Inca Orchid, Chinese Crested): Apply sunscreen on their delicate skin and moisturize it to avoid dryness and cracking.
• Fluffy dogs (e.g., Chow Chow, Caucasian Shepherd Dog): You should groom these breeds professionally every few months to keep their coats in excellent condition.

Exercise No matter how quirky these breeds are, they need regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. It includes:

• Daily walks or playtime in a fenced area.
• Fetching or other interactive games that fuel their physical and mental stimulation.
• Depending on the breed, agility training or other dog sports could be a beneficial means of exercise.

Health To ensure the well-being of these dog breeds, make sure to:

1. Schedule regular vet checkups.
2. Administer vaccinations and preventive care (e.g., heartworm, flea, and tick treatment).
3. Monitor for any breed-specific health issues, such as hip dysplasia or eye problems.

Nutrition A proper diet is crucial for these fascinating canines, consider these points:

• Feed them high-quality, balanced dog food that supports their age, weight, and activity level.
• Be cautious about breed-specific nutritional requirements or food allergies.
• Maintain a consistent feeding schedule, and avoid overfeeding.

Training Since the temperament of these dog breeds may vary, you should:

• Use positive reinforcement techniques (e.g., treats, praise).
• Start training early, as it is easier to mold good behavior in younger dogs.
• Be patient and consistent to ensure that your dog understands what is expected.

Socialization Lastly, to keep these intriguing breeds well-adjusted, keep in mind to:

• Expose your dog to various sights, sounds, and environments while they are young.
• Attend puppy classes or group dog walks to help your canine buddy build social skills.
• Use of proper equipment and tools to ensure safe and positive experiences with other dogs and humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the questions that are frequently asked about these craziest dog breeds? Let’s find out.

What breed tops the list of the most unusual and exotic dog breeds worldwide?

Many dog breeds can be considered unusual and exotic, but one that stands out is the Xoloitzcuintle, sometimes referred to as Xoloitzcuintli or simply Xolo. This ancient breed from Mexico is most notable for its hairless appearance and unique name, which reflects its pre-Columbian origins.

Which dog breeds are considered the rarest and most sought-after by enthusiasts?

If you're a dog enthusiast looking for rare and sought-after breeds, here are a few:

• Azawakh: A stunning and elegant sighthound from Africa.
• Catalburun: A Turkish hunting dog is known for its distinctive split nose.
• Norwegian Lundehund: A unique breed from Norway with six toes on each foot and extreme flexibility.
• Peruvian Inca Orchid: A hairless dog from Peru with a graceful and elegant appearance.

Can you name some dog breeds that are less popular but still incredibly unique?

Certainly! Here are a few lesser-known, unique dog breeds you might not be familiar with:

• Alaskan Klee Kai: A small, energetic dog resembling a miniature Alaskan Malamute or Siberian Husky.
• Bergamasco Shepherd: An Italian breed that stands out for its matted coat, which forms natural ‘flocks’ or cords.
• Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog: A herding dog from Australia with a naturally short tail and striking appearance.
• Cambodian Razorback: Native to Cambodia, this rare dog breed is known for its unique ridge of hair along its back.

Have you ever encountered a weird dog breed mix? What are some of the most intriguing examples?

Dog breed mixes can create some fascinating combinations. Here are a few examples that are sure to intrigue:

• Pomsky: A mix between a Pomeranian and a Siberian Husky, blending the fluffiness of a Pomeranian with the distinct features of a Husky.
• Schnoodle: This charming mix of a Schnauzer and a Poodle combines intelligence, playfulness, and low-shedding qualities.
• Corgidor: A cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, resulting in an adorable short-legged but sturdy pup.
• Beagador: This Beagle-Labrador mix combines the friendly nature and intelligence of Labradors with the hunting instincts and strong sense of smell of Beagles.

What are some of the weirdest dog breed names known to the dog-loving community?

Dog breed names can be as unique as the breeds themselves. Here are some of the weirder names you might encounter:

• Xoloitzcuintle (pronounced as "sho-low-its-kweent-li"): As mentioned earlier, this name is definitely among the most unique.
• Bouvier des Flandres: A large, sturdy herding dog from Belgium with a unique name that may leave you tongue-tied.
• Schipperke: A small, agile Belgian breed with a fox-like face and a name that's hard to pronounce (it's "SHEEP-er-kee").
• Lowchen: Also known as the "Little Lion Dog," this is a small, friendly breed from Europe with a distinct haircut and a name that means "little lion" in German.