Rare Dog Breeds You Probably Haven't Heard Of

# **Rare Dog Breeds You Probably Haven't Heard Of** Dogs have long been cherished as beloved pets, offering companionship, loyalty, and affection to countless households worldwide. While many people are familiar with popular [dog breeds](https://thepetworld.org/dog-breeds) such as the Border Collie or the German Shepherd, there is an entire world of lesser-known breeds that remain under the radar. These rare dog breeds often possess unique characteristics and qualities that set them apart from their more common counterparts. For those intrigued by the unusual and the extraordinary, exploring these rare breeds can provide a fascinating and rewarding experience. In this blog, we will delve into three exceptional rare dog breeds, revealing what makes them stand out and considering their potential as emotional support animals. ## **Why Study Rare Dog Breeds?** Resolving to get a rare dog breed may turn out to be one of the most rewarding experiences in getting a very different and distinguishable companion. Most breeds come with special traits and qualities that set them apart from breeds that are most common. Whether looking for a unique pet or mulling over a rare breed as an ESA, learning about these breeds can help you make an informed decision. ## Affenhuahua: The Playful Hybrid <a href="https://ibb.co/7QMqm7Y"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/W08LJSx/Affenhuahua-2.jpg" alt="Affenhuahua-2" border="0" /></a> ### **Characteristics:** - **Size:** Small, 6-12 pounds - **Coat:** Short, smooth - **Temperament:** Alert, playful, and curious The [Affenhuahua](https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/affenhuahua) is a gorgeous hybrid breed. It brings the playfulness of the Chihuahua and pairs it with the unique features of the Affenpinscher. This tiny dog is full of energy and will make for a loving companion in your life. With its almost ape-like appearance and lively, energetic personality, the Affenhuahua makes for entertainment and activity. Quite alert and adaptable, <a href="https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/affenhuahua#:~:text=These%20compact%2C%20cute,dog%20for%20you!" target="_blank">Affenhuahua is suitable for apartment living</a> and does very well in family bonding. ### **ESA Eligibility:** With an Affenhuahua, you have one of the most affectionate breeds with an interactive temperament that will work well as an ESA. Of course, you'll need an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional that confirms the dog provides significant emotional support and gives benefit to your mental wellbeing. This breed has been known to be able to bond tightly to its owners, thus providing companionship that enhances its qualification as an emotional support animal. ## Barbado da Terceira: The Loyal Herding Dog <a href="https://ibb.co/XVCs8fs"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/HXHzdLz/Barbado-da-Terceira.jpg" alt="Barbado-da-Terceira" border="0" /></a> ### **Characteristics:** - **Size:** Medium, between 30-40 pounds - **Coat:** Short, dense, and weather-resistant - **Temperament:** Loyal, intelligent, brave, and energetic From the Azores in Portugal, the [Barbado da Terceira](https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/barbado-da-terceira) is a very rare breed of dog that is known to have a sturdy body and a hardworking nature. It will, therefore, do well with a dense, weather-resistant coat.<a href="https://thepetworld.org/dog-breeds/barbado-da-terceira#:~:text=in%202021.-,Personality,for%20the%20responsibilities%20of%20caring%20for%20a%20Barbado%20da%20Terceira%20dog.,-Physical%20Appearance" target="_blank">Barbado da Terceira has an adorable personality</a> characterized by high intelligence, nobility, and endurant energy, which makes it an excellent breed to be used by active people or families. The breed is loyal, but in possession of a keen sense of smell and herding instinct, making them rather unique. ### **ESA Eligibility:** With its loyalty and intelligence, the Barbado da Terceira can turn into an efficient ESA. This requires an official ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. The letter is going to testify that the dog offers primary emotional support and improves your mental health. Their very good bonding with the owner and adaptability make this breed a very nice emotional support companion. ## Basset Bleu de Gascogne: The Gentle Tracker <a href="https://imgbb.com/"><img src="https://i.ibb.co/sH3RDdD/2-Basset-Bleu-de-Gascogne.jpg" alt="2-Basset-Bleu-de-Gascogne" border="0" /></a> ### **Characteristics:** - **Size:** Medium (40-50 pounds) - **Coat:** Short, smooth, and sleek; blue-gray in color - **Temperament:** Gentle, friendly, determined, independent The Basset Bleu de Gascogne is another rare breed from France. What makes it instantly recognizable is its unusual color—blue-gray—and gentle disposition. It carries fantastic hunting and tracking abilities, which constitute the basis of this breed but couples them with an extremely calm and amiable nature. Since it is adaptable to residence conditions and has a middle flow of exercise, the <a href="https://thepetworld.org/dog-breeds/basset-bleu-de-gascogne#:~:text=as%20Scent%20Hounds.-,Personality,and%20vocal%20nature%20require%20careful%20handling%20and%20training%20from%20their%20owners.,-Potential%20challenges%C2%A0">Basset Bleu de Gascogne has a playful nature</a> and will reward its owner's affection and loyalty but at the same time expresses a liking for independence. ### **ESA Eligibility:** The friendly and tender disposition of the Basset Bleu de Gascogne makes it quite appropriate as an ESA. Of course, you will need an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional to qualify. It will confirm that the dog provides substantial emotional support, thereby providing accommodation in housing and travel. The breed's adaptability and affectionate nature add to its suitability as an emotional support animal. ## **Picking the Right Rare Breed** When seeking out a rare dog breed, there are some fundamental areas that a person should address to be satisfied with the experience. Being rare, each of these breeds—the Affenhuahua, the Barbado da Terceira, and the Basset Bleu de Gascogne—is special in their ways and has different positive attributes that set them apart from others. If you want to consider a rare breed for an emotional support animal, consult first with a mental health professional to secure an [emotional support animal letter](https://www.realesaletter.com/). ### **Things to consider when picking a rare breed:** - **Lifestyle compatibility:** Make sure the breed characteristics are compatible with your daily schedule and living environment. Some breeds require a lot of exercise or space, others might be adjustable to apartment living. - **Health considerations:** Check what is usual regarding health complications in breeds and make inquiries with a veterinarian. You can plan for long-term health management if you know special care requirements. - **Training and Grooming:** Assess the breed's needs with respect to training and grooming. Some rare breeds may require special training or higher frequency of grooming, so be prepared to spend your time and resources on them accordingly. - **Socialization Needs:** Consider the amount of socialization that the breed requires. Some of the rare breeds require more time in socialization so that they adjust to the different environment and people. - **Availability of Resources:** Check for breed-specific resources like vets, groomers, and training facilities. The availability of these resources is very crucial to ensure proper care and that the needs specific to the breed are met. ## **FAQs**. 1. **Are rare breeds of dogs more prone to health issues?** Some rare breeds can come with inherent health issues attributed to the small gene pool. Research common health problems and speak with a veterinarian to understand potential risks. 2. **How do I identify a responsible breeder of a rare breed dog?** Look for breeders that are associated with breed clubs or breed associations and in good standing. Visit them, get references, and make sure they also provide health clearances on their dogs. 3. **What is required to qualify a rare canine breed as an emotional support animal?** For an animal to be considered an ESA, you would require an ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional. It was this documentation that verified the dog provided substantial emotional support and was a necessity to participate in either the housing or travel sector of society. 4. **How do I know if a rare dog breed is the right addition for my family?** Consider how the breed's characteristic fits your lifestyle, including energy levels, grooming needs, and behavior characteristics. You may want to meet the breed and discuss with current owners to make your decision.