These 12 Dog Breeds Are in Danger of Extinction—and No One’s Talking About It

They’ve been our hunting partners, royal companions, and loyal lapdogs—but some of the world’s most beloved dog breeds are now teetering on the edge of extinction.

While flashy designer dogs and social media darlings like the French Bulldog and Goldendoodle steal the spotlight, several historically significant and once-popular breeds are quietly fading into obscurity.

And it’s not because they aren’t wonderful companions—many of these rare breeds are affectionate, intelligent, and full of character.

But trends change, lifestyles shift, and sadly, popularity plays a big role in survival. Some breeds were developed for very specific jobs—like puffin hunting or otter tracking—that no longer exist in modern life.

Others have been overshadowed by flashier relatives or misunderstood due to their unique traits.

Whatever the reason, declining registrations and limited breeding pools have put these dogs on critical watch lists around the world. In many cases, we’re talking fewer than a few hundred puppies born each year.

And the consequences aren’t just sentimental. When a breed disappears, we lose a piece of canine history, genetic diversity, and in some cases, a living relic of human culture.

But this isn’t a eulogy—it’s a wake-up call. If more people knew how incredible these breeds truly are, perhaps they wouldn’t be vanishing from our lives and into the pages of history books.

So let’s shine a light on the forgotten gems of the dog world. These are the 12 beloved dog breeds that are now facing extinction—not because they aren’t lovable, but because the world simply stopped paying attention.

1. Otterhound

With its shaggy double coat and booming voice, the Otterhound was once a celebrated water dog in England, bred specifically to track otters through rivers and marshes.

These dogs are strong swimmers with webbed feet and a nose that rivals even the Bloodhound’s.

Today, this playful, affectionate breed is nearly lost to time. Fewer than 600 Otterhounds exist worldwide, making it one of the rarest dog breeds on Earth.

Lack of awareness, modern hunting bans, and minimal breeding interest have all contributed to its alarming decline.

2. Skye Terrier

The Skye Terrier is elegance wrapped in low-slung fur. Once the darling of British nobility—and famously adored by Queen Victoria—this breed was historically praised for its brave heart and silky coat.

Despite its regal roots and affectionate temperament, the Skye Terrier has fallen out of favor.

It’s now on the UK’s Vulnerable Native Breeds list, with some years seeing fewer than 50 new puppies registered. Without urgent attention, this dignified little dog could fade into obscurity.

3. Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The Dandie Dinmont Terrier may sound like a fictional character—and in fact, its name comes from a Walter Scott novel—but this breed is very real and heartbreakingly rare.

Known for its long body, poofy topknot, and soulful eyes, the Dandie is a Scottish treasure.

It’s also one of the least-registered breeds in the UK. Despite its affectionate nature and unique look, modern dog owners continue to overlook it. As its numbers dwindle, so too does a quirky piece of canine history.

4. Smooth Fox Terrier

Once a fixture in British dog shows and family homes, the Smooth Fox Terrier was among the first breeds recognized by the AKC. Its sleek build, endless energy, and fearless personality made it an early favorite among hunters and sportsmen.

But times have changed. Today, its wiry cousin—the Wire Fox Terrier—grabs all the attention.

Smooths are bred less frequently, and registrations continue to fall. Without renewed interest, this sharp and spunky terrier may vanish from the spotlight entirely.

5. Irish Red and White Setter

While the Irish Setter enjoys steady popularity, its lesser-known cousin—the Irish Red and White Setter—is slipping through the cracks. These dogs are just as loving and capable, with a stunning two-tone coat and calm, friendly nature.

They nearly disappeared in the 20th century and are now fighting another uphill battle.

Despite efforts to preserve the breed, litters remain few and far between. Without increased awareness and responsible breeding, this charming setter might once again vanish from the field.

6. Norwegian Lundehund

Six toes. Flexible shoulders. An uncanny ability to bend its neck backward. The Norwegian Lundehund sounds like a mythical creature, but it’s all dog—and one of the rarest on the planet.

This quirky pup was originally bred to climb cliffs and hunt puffins in Norway.

But modern life has little need for puffin hunters. Between its specific care needs and a narrow gene pool, the breed struggles to maintain numbers. Without careful conservation, the Lundehund’s remarkable traits may disappear for good.

7. Sussex Spaniel

Stocky, slow-moving, and sweet-natured, the Sussex Spaniel is a steady contrast to the more energetic spaniel types. Its distinctive golden liver coat and low growl make it unmistakable—and deeply lovable to those who know the breed.

Unfortunately, few people do. The Sussex Spaniel remains one of the least-known and least-bred spaniels worldwide. With such small numbers and limited popularity, the breed could be lost unless more dog lovers are drawn to its laid-back charm.

8. American Foxhound

As one of the oldest American breeds—traced back to George Washington’s personal pack—the American Foxhound is a part of the country’s canine legacy. With its long legs, musical voice, and strong hunting instincts, it was made for the chase.

But in today’s world, few people need a fox-chasing hound. Without a working purpose or widespread appeal as a pet, the American Foxhound is fading into historical footnotes. It remains noble—but critically overlooked.

9. Glen of Imaal Terrier

Hailing from Ireland’s remote Glen of Imaal, this sturdy terrier was originally bred for badger hunting and even turning meat on a spit. It’s scrappy, strong, and surprisingly mellow for a terrier, with a charming rough coat and short legs.

Still, few people outside Ireland know it exists. Even within its homeland, it’s one of the rarest native breeds. As preferences shift toward more common terriers, the Glen risks slipping away quietly despite its undeniable grit and heart.

10. English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan)

Resembling a miniaturized Doberman, the English Toy Terrier was once a star in Victorian-era ratting competitions and a loyal lapdog in posh drawing rooms. It’s agile, elegant, and devoted to its people.

Sadly, the breed has become almost invisible. It’s now considered critically endangered in the UK, with new puppy registrations barely cracking double digits some years.

Without advocacy and renewed interest, this poised little pup might become a thing of the past.

11. Field Spaniel

The Field Spaniel walks a fine line between the Cocker and the Springer. Once bred for the show ring, this breed was sculpted into a longer, lower dog than nature intended. It nearly vanished by the 20th century—and it’s still not out of the woods.

Despite a more functional modern build, the Field Spaniel remains a rare sight. Its mellow temperament and beauty deserve a wider audience, but its numbers remain low—putting its future on uncertain ground.

12. Sloughi

Sleek, noble, and swift, the Sloughi—also known as the Arabian Greyhound—is a prized North African sighthound with ancient roots. Revered by the Berber people and admired for its hunting ability, it’s a living relic of desert culture.

Yet outside of Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, the Sloughi is barely recognized. It’s a difficult breed to find, and even harder to preserve without deep understanding of its needs.

If global awareness doesn’t grow, this elegant sighthound may one day disappear from the sand and the spotlight.