Some dog breeds get adopted, loved, and cared for just for existing! They gain popularity worldwide for many different reasons – cuteness, function, and practicality.
But then there are these boys (and girls!) who are sadly forgotten about. They face the heartbreaking reality of dwindling numbers each day. This happens for many reasons: a lack of demand, limited breeding, and even health issues.
Here are some dog breeds that may sadly be on the path to extinction if we don’t step up and do our best with conservation efforts!
1. Otterhound
These dogs were once the pride of medieval England’s rivers, sent to hunt otters. You may be thinking, “Why? Otters are so cute!” and I am inclined to agree, but that was just how it was back then.
Don’t think less of these puppies for it, though! They’re shaggy and happy-go-lucky hounds that love nothing more than splashing around in rivers, even without otters! Their thick and oily coat is made for water games!
One of the coolest traits these dogs have: webbed feet that help them paddle through water. The number of the Otterhound declined when otter hunting was outlawed. Sadly, there are less than a thousand of these doggos remaining today.
2. Skye Terrier
Skyes once lived in Scotland’s countryside, fearlessly chasing foxes and badgers. Like some kind of Baroque painting, these dogs really put on a show. I mean, do you see those ears? Flowing gracefully in the wind?
Today, this breed faded into obscurity. Absolutely heartbreaking! All because fashion trends are changing, and not even Queen Victoria could save them from becoming less relevant.
Their demanding grooming needs contributed to their declining numbers. But look at them. They look so huggable and fluffy. It’s so sad.
3. Sussex Spaniel
This charming dog has been flushing out game in the dense brush for many centuries. But their spaniel cousins took the spotlight instead, despite the Sussex’s cool jaw-dropping skills!
Did I mention they can talk? Maybe not in a “let’s chat about milk tea” kind of way but more like, they have unique vocalizations which make them sound a little like humans sometimes kind of way.
Unfortunately, we see these dogs less and less, and it is becoming very concerning. We cross-engineered all these dogs, and we should preserve them now that they’re here! Aesthetics are nice and all, but let’s be responsible, shall we?
4. Chinook
An American sled dog which one could call a Polar Retriever of Hearts. They are as impressive as they are rare, famous for their strength combined with a family-loving nature! They love kiddos, and they’re ready to play with them like no other dog can!
Fewer than 150 puppies are born each year. Wondering why? Well, the demand for sled dogs has declined for many reasons, one of which may have something to do with climate change.
The decline in their numbers leaves them with an uncertain future. And knowing what good boys (and girls!) they are? Quite unfortunate!
5. Norwegian Lundehund
Imagine a dog that can climb cliffs like a mountain goat and contort like a yoga master. Sounds like a superhero, right? Well, this six-toed, puffin hunter once gurued all over the rocky shores of Norway.
But sadly, this story does not have a happy ending. After surviving a devastating genetic bottleneck during World War II, this breed hangs on by a thread.
The Lundehund’s health issues have been threatening its existence each day. Estimates say less than 1000 are left in the world.