Bruno Pugh
Dogs have been loyal friends to humans for countless years, acting as hunters’ partners and protectors alike. While many breeds are doing well in the modern day, others face extinction. Why is that the case? This article shares some answers.
Otterhound
The Otterhound is an English dog breed. Because of its unique rough hair and webbed feet, the Otterhound was once a major player in English otter hunting. However, their numbers have decreased significantly due to the decline in hunting activities and the implementation of strict hunting restrictions. Less than 1,000 otterhounds remain today, making them one of the rarest dog breeds.
Norwegian Lundehund
Well-known for its unusual flexibility and additional toes, the Norwegian Lundehund was first bred to hunt puffins on cliffs. Current seabird conservation regulations have rendered this dog breed nearly extinct. These days, most Lundehunds live in Norway and number only a few hundred.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
Due to a lack of knowledge and breeding challenges, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier, once famous for hunting small animals, has become an endangered breed. Though we are currently living in an age of information, the breed’s specific health and breeding challenges require experienced breeders, who are becoming increasingly rare. Hailing from the border between England and Scotland, this endearing dog can be recognized by its long body and special hair called “topknot.”
Skye Terrier
Once a favored breed of Queen Victoria, The Skye Terrier was a well-liked companion because of its uncommon long, flowing fur and combative nature. However, the breed now faces the threat of extinction due to low birth rates and scarce breeding initiatives.
English Toy Terrier (Black and Tan)
The attractive black and tan coat of the English Toy Terrier earned it the nickname “rat magnet” and made it a popular companion in Victorian England. However, as other little breeds like the Chihuahua, Pomeranian, and French Bulldog gained popularity, the English Toy Terrier became less popular, with fewer than 300 puppies registered annually.
Azawakh
The Azawakh hails from West Africa (mainly in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso) and is prized for its hunting skills. It is elegant and swift. Despite its historical value and distinctive beauty, the breed is still uncommon outside its natural habitat. The Azawakh faces challenges like variable temperaments, high exercise needs, and the need for experienced owners. Their low genetic variety makes population growth impossible.
Sussex Spaniel
This happy, golden-eyed spaniel was formerly one of England’s most popular hunting dogs. However, its deliberate and sluggish hunting strategy became unpopular, causing an abrupt reduction in breeding. The number of Sussex Spaniels is extremely low, and the breed is hardly ever seen outside of specialized dog events.
Thai Ridgeback
The Thai Ridgeback is a primitive breed from Thailand. It gets its name from the peculiar hair ridge that runs down its back. Thai Ridgebacks are an intelligent breed with a medium to high energy level, spending most of the day lounging. They are naturally protective of their home and family and can be either fierce or shy when not properly socialized. Their relatively unknown status comes from its highly restricted breeding activities and lack of global visibility, even with its protective and devoted attitude.
Peruvian Inca Orchid
As early as 750 AD, pottery shows images of the Peruvian Inca orchid, indicating pre-Incan societies like the Moche, Chancay, and Chimu valued it highly. This ancient breed is celebrated for its hairless variety and striking appearance. The Peruvian Inca Orchid faces extinction, given its niche appeal and the challenges associated with breeding and maintaining a healthy population.
Scottish Deerhound
The Scottish Deerhound, which was long highly valued for its ability to herd deer through the Highlands of Scotland, is in danger of going extinct. This breed has long won many admirers with its tall, slender physique and kind disposition. The Scottish Deerhound is now listed as endangered due to changing hunting conditions and decreased interest in traditional hunting methods.
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