If you are a dog lover, you may be familiar with popular dog breeds like Golden Retrievers, but many of you know about Coton de Tulear. I think most of you have heard this name even the first time. These dog breeds are referred as to exotic or rare dog breeds and today in this article, we are going to discuss exotic dog breeds for families. This article is going to be very interesting as we are uncovering hidden dog breeds. Let’s begin this amazing article.
Top 10 Exotic Dog Breeds for Families
Exotic dog breeds can bring a unique charm and personality to family life, combining distinct appearances with loyal and loving temperaments. These breeds often offer fascinating traits and histories, making them a perfect fit for families. Keep reading and exploring these breeds –
1. Lagotto Romagnolo
Known as the “truffle dog,” this breed from Italy is intelligent, affectionate, and great with children. Their curly, wool-like coats are low-shedding and make them ideal for families looking for a hypoallergenic companion.
Characteristics:
| Breed Name Lagotto Romagnolo | Attribute | Details |
| Height | 16-19 inches | |
| Weight | 24-35 pounds | |
| Physical Appearance | Curly, dense coat; medium-sized, athletic build | |
| Temperament | Intelligent, affectionate, and family-friendly |
2. Mudi
When you love to play with dogs and looking for exotic dog breeds for families, then Mudi is highly recommendable. This Hungarian herding dog is highly energetic, and versatile, and performs exceptionally well in active family environments. It thrives on mental stimulation and loves participating in outdoor activities.
Also Read: Are Golden Retrievers Good With Cats? Let’s Find Out
Characteristics:
| Breed Name Mudi | Attribute | Details |
| Height | 15-19 inches | |
| Weight | 18-29 pounds | |
| Physical Appearance | Wavy or curly coat; muscular, agile body | |
| Temperament | Energetic, versatile, and great for active families |
3. Stabyhoun
Stabyhoun is a rare dog breed for families especially a family of pet lovers. The Stabyhoun from the Netherlands is characterized by loyalty and a calm temperament. Its protective nature makes it a great family watchdog and friendly with kids.
Characteristics:
| Breed Name Stabyhoun | Attribute | Details |
| Height | 19-21 inches | |
| Weight | 40-55 pounds | |
| Physical Appearance | Black, brown, or orange-spotted coat; medium-sized | |
| Temperament | Loyal, calm, and protective |
4. New Guinea Singing Dog
Exciting to explore more exotic dog breeds for families? New Guinea Singing Dog could be a great option. This breed is famous for its unique vocalizations and is playful, and highly intelligent. It has some wild instincts but can attach deeply to families that provide proper training and socialization.
Characteristics:
| Breed Name New Guinea Singing Dog | Attribute | Details |
| Height | 14-18 inches | |
| Weight | 18-30 pounds | |
| Physical Appearance | Fox-like appearance; golden-red coat | |
| Temperament | Playful, intelligent, with some wild instincts |
5. Catalburun
A breed from Turkey, Catalburun is an unusual dog breed, is known for its distinct split nose, and is an excellent hunting breed. With proper early training, its alert and curious nature makes it an excellent family watchdog.
Characteristics:
| Breed Name Catalburun | Attribute | Details |
| Height | 17-24 inches | |
| Weight | 35-50 pounds | |
| Physical Appearance | Distinct split nose; athletic and lean | |
| Temperament | Alert, curious, focused |
6. Biewer Terrier
A great little companion, the Biewer Terrier is among the ideal exotic dog breeds for families who want a smaller lap dog, but are very loving and affectionate. Its joyful temperament makes it very good for children and other pets.
Characteristics:
| Breed Name Biewer Terrier | Attribute | Details |
| Height | 7-11 inches | |
| Weight | 14-18 pounds | |
| Physical Appearance | Long, flowing coat with tricolor markings | |
| Temperament | Cheerful, affectionate, and great with kids |
Also Read: Exploring Impressive Dog Breeds Similar to German Shepherds
7. Carolina Dog
A primitive breed, it is fox-like, the Carolina Dog is highly adaptable and resourceful; and thrives on love from active families with settings. This survival instinct allows the animal to be more resilient and alert.
Characteristics:
| Breed Name Carolina Dog | Attribute | Details |
| Height | 17-20 inches | |
| Weight | 30-44 pounds | |
| Physical Appearance | Fox-like face, sleek body; tan or reddish coat | |
| Temperament | Resourceful, adaptable, and loyal |
8. Pyrenean Shepherd
This scrappy, jovial, and exotic dog breed is devoted to family and thrives on agility and obedience training. This is well-suited to the kind of families that enjoy exercising in dog sports.
Characteristics:
| Breed Name Pyrenean Shepherd | Attribute | Details |
| Height | 15-21 inches | |
| Weight | 15-32 pounds | |
| Physical Appearance | Scruffy coat; small and agile body | |
| Temperament | Cheerful, energetic, and devoted |
9. Bergamasco Sheepdog
Looking to explore more exotic dog breeds for families, then the Bergamasco Sheepdog is something you might prefer. Characterized by a distinctive “mop-like” coat, this is a quiet, vigilant, and low-maintenance breed. Though this breed looks peculiar, it is a kindly guarding breed for a family.
Characteristics:
| Breed Name Bergamasco Sheepdog | Attribute | Details |
| Height | 22-24 inches | |
| Weight | 57-84 pounds | |
| Physical Appearance | Unique mop-like coat; sturdy, medium build | |
| Temperament | Calm, watchful, and protective |
10. Belgian Laekenois
The Belgian Shepherd variant known as the Tervuren is the rarest of the group, it’s loyal and protective, with a tousled coat. It thrives in active families that can provide plenty of companionship and physical activities.
Characteristics:
| Breed Name Belgian Laekenois | Attribute | Details |
| Height | 22-26 inches | |
| Weight | 44-66 pounds | |
| Physical Appearance | Tousled, wiry coat; strong and athletic build | |
| Temperament | Loyal, protective, and energetic |
Also Read: Miniature Yorkshire Terrier – Everything about World’s Smallest Dog
Conclusion
Exotic dog breeds for families can be the perfect option for any family, offering unique traits and personalities that complement various lifestyles. From active companions to calm, affectionate breeds, these rare breeds bring a distinct charm to your home. Consider adopting an exotic breed to experience the joy of a loyal, one-of-a-kind family member.
