15 Dogs That Are Loved Abroad But Barely Show Up In America

All around the world, from the buzz of Asia’s cities to the calm of Europe’s countryside, some dog breeds are beloved companions. In the U.S., though, many of these favorites barely appear in homes. Here are 15 incredible breeds you’re unlikely to cross paths with locally.

Kooikerhondje

With its feathered ears and cheerful gait, the Kooikerhondje once lured ducks into traps for Dutch hunters. Today, it’s a cherished family companion in the Netherlands. Despite its intelligence and lively nature, this small spaniel hasn’t caught on in the U.S., likely due to limited exposure and breeding.

Azawakh

In the U.S., the Azawakh’s independence and rarity keep it off most people’s radar. Revered in Mali and Niger for its speed and cool, distant loyalty, it’s a standout in West Africa. It moves alongside nomadic tribes through the Sahel like it was born for it, which it was.

Thai Ridgeback

The Thai Ridgeback’s distinctive spine-hugging ridge of fur and muscular build give it an exotic charm. Although native to Thailand’s urban and rural scenes, it’s still a novelty in the U.S., whose aloofness and guarding instincts demand experienced, confident handlers.

Norwegian Lundehund’s

The Norwegian Lundehund remains rare in the U.S.—perhaps a bit too quirky for the average dog lover. Back in Norway, though, it’s admired for its agility and charm. With six toes per paw and a bendy neck, it was built for cliffside puffin hunts. And you best believe that it did well.

Canaan Dog

In the U.S., the Canaan Dog’s aloof nature and need for early socialization have kept adoption numbers low. Bred from ancient desert dogs, it’s both rugged and intelligent. Those semi-wild roots make it a prized working companion in Israel, where it still thrives in modern tasks.

Tornjak

In the rugged mountains of Bosnia and Croatia, the Tornjak is deeply valued in rural communities where wolves and bears still pose threats. Calm and confident around its family, yet wary of strangers, it’s not a casual companion and hasn’t been marketed as a pet for suburban homes.

Slovensky Cuvac

Its size, stubborn streak, and need for space make the Slovensky Cuvac a challenge for casual pet owners. Still, its loyalty and courage are unmatched. In Slovakia’s mountain regions, this fluffy white powerhouse guards livestock from wolves and bears with fearless dedication.

Xoloitzcuintli

Which dog guided spirits in ancient Aztec mythology and still turns heads today? The hairless and dignified Xoloitzcuintli once walked beside nobles and played a sacred role. Though cherished in Mexico, its stark appearance and reserved personality are rare in the American pet scene.

Finnish Lapphund

In the U.S., the Finnish Lapphund stays under the radar, likely overlooked in favor of flashier breeds with bigger reputations. Yet it’s friendly and fits surprisingly well into family life. Tough enough to herd reindeer in Lapland’s icy wilds, it’s much more than a pretty face.

Telomian

Hidden deep in Malaysia’s rainforests, the Telomian is both a climber and a rat-catcher and lives among indigenous peoples in raised huts. Its agility and loyalty make it treasured there. Yet almost no one in the U.S. owns one, partly because it’s rarely bred outside its native region.

Estrela Mountain Dog

The Estrela Mountain Dog rarely appears in the U.S., likely because it needs space and a job. Brave and intensely loyal, it bonds closely to its territory. For generations, this guardian has watched over sheep in Portugal’s Serra da Estrela mountains and even deterred wolves and thieves.

Stabyhoun

In the Dutch province of Friesland, the Stabyhoun is a well-kept treasure. Gentle and skilled at hunting and retrieving, it fits beautifully into active families. But it’s rarely found outside the Netherlands, partly because Frisian breeders limit exports to preserve the breed’s quality and cultural roots.

Karelian Bear Dog

Used to deter bears in remote forests, the Karelian Bear Dog is all business. Finland values it as a national treasure, but this no-nonsense tracker doesn’t often enter the American pet market. It needs space and someone who can handle that strong-willed personality of theirs.

Russian Black Terrier

The Russian Black Terrier isn’t your average house dog—it’s a purpose-built military guardian bred in the former Soviet Union. Its loyalty is unmatched, but its strength and heavy grooming needs may keep most U.S. homes from signing up. It thrives in brutal winters because of its thick coat.

Mudi

While it’s brilliant at herding and quick on its feet, the Mudi is rarely seen in American neighborhoods. This Hungarian dynamo brings brains and drive to every task. Back home, it’s still valued as a working dog who has been driving flocks across Hungarian farms since the 19th century.