The most underrated dog breeds
- Updated
Some underrated breeds have outstanding qualities making them the perfect Fido friends.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
Labrador retrievers and German shepherds remain among the most popular dog breeds year after year, but some underrated breeds like the Bedlington terrier and the Tibetian spaniel, despite lower ranks in popularity, have outstanding qualities making them the perfect Fido friends.
Data analysts at PetBreeds, a Graphiq vertical search engine, acquired data from the American Kennel Club’s 2015 dog breed rankings, developed an index and compiled a list of the most underrated dogs. The PetBreeds Index combines seven different breed criteria including: intelligence, longevity, health, lifetime costs, general maintenance, adaptability and protective/guard skills.
Of the 184 pups recognized by the AKC, the breeds showing the largest positive improvements between the PetBreeds Index and the AKC’s ranking were considered the most underrated. In the case of ties, the breeds were listed alphabetically. Some dogs on this list, like the Greyhound are well-known, while others are more obscure. Find out which underestimated canine companion tops the charts.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 53
AKC Rank: 122
Difference: 69
The smooth fox terrier is just as cute and playful as a Jack Russell, and training this breed won't require much effort.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 98
AKC Rank: 171
Difference: 73
The pharaoh hound is one of the oldest domesticated dogs in recorded history. The breed is exceedingly talented in a wide range of activities, including sighting and hunting.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 26
AKC Rank: 99
Difference: 73
The AKC first recognized the Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever in 2003. This breed is known for being gentle and is great around children.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 5
AKC Rank: 79
Difference: 74
The Staffordshire bull terrier, known to be courageous and loyal, will protect its owner against an intruder.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 51
AKC Rank: 129
Difference: 78
The English toy spaniel is an adorable toy purebred with a quiet and loyal demeanor. The breed can adapt to apartment living and can handle cold weather.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 7
AKC Rank: 86
Difference: 79
The flat-coated retriever, sharing roots with the popular Labrador retriever, differs in popularity compared to its well-known relative despite having a longer life expectancy.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 50
AKC Rank: 135
Difference: 85
The Xoloitzcuintli, also called the "Mexican hairless," experiences minimal shedding, easy training and great watchdog ability. Shockingly, this breed has a 14- to 20-year life expectancy.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 23
AKC Rank: 108
Difference: 85
The Welsh terrier, No. 108 on AKC's popularity list, is known for its alert, energetic and friendly disposition. This breed is multitalented and participates in many activities including hunting and tracking.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 29
AKC Rank: 114
Difference: 85
The pointers first appeared in England in 1650, but despite being around for over three centuries, this breed;s popularity remains low (No. 114). This hardworking and sweet pup is a good choice for active dog owners.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 92
AKC Rank: 180
Difference: 88
The otterhound, a medium purebred, originates from the United Kingdom. The otterhound is an extremely rare breed. It is more rare than the endangered giant panda.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 22
AKC Rank: 111
Difference: 89
The Parson Russell terrier will keep its owners on their feet with its energetic disposition. While the Jack Russell terrier is more popular, the Parson Russell terrier is easier to train.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 71
AKC Rank: 161
Difference: 90
If you don't mind regular grooming, the Lowchen is a gorgeous breed with a long, flowing and hypoallergenic coat. The breed can be demanding of your attention, but its affectionate, loyal and playful temperament and easy training makes this underrated dog a great Fido friend.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 28
AKC Rank: 121
Difference: 93
The miniature bull terrier might not be as popular as the standard size of the breed – the bull terrier is the face of Target – but this miniature pup is easy to train and requires little grooming or maintenance.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 52
AKC Rank: 145
Difference: 93
If you are looking for a social breed, then the field spaniel might be a good choice for you. The breed is great around kids and has a cheerful temperament.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 78
AKC Rank: 173
Difference: 95
Named after Sussex, England, the Sussex spaniel with its gorgeous, silky coat, trains easily and barks frequently, often to alert its owners when an intruder is near.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 45
AKC Rank: 141
Difference: 96
The Lakeland terrier originates from the United Kingdom and is known for participating in hunting and tracking activities. This breed's low popularity should not detract from its amazing 12- to 16-year life expectancy.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 38
AKC Rank: 136
Difference: 98
The Affenpinscher's nickname "monkey dog" can be attributed to its distinct appearance. While this German purebred does not shed much, it does require frequent grooming.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 57
AKC Rank: 157
Difference: 100
While this breed ranks low in popularity, it excels in a large number of skills. American water spaniels are particularly good at agility, retrieving, hunting and tracking.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 27
AKC Rank: 128
Difference: 101
Appropriately named, the Welsh springer spaniel definitely has a spring in its step. This active breed is ideal for owners who enjoy hunting and staying active.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 65
AKC Rank: 172
Difference: 107
It can be hard to track down a local Dandie Dinmont terrier breeder, but these terriers excel at hunting, have an affectionate temperament and do not shed.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 74
AKC Rank: 181
Difference: 107
If you love hound dogs, then give the American foxhound a chance. The large purebred is known to be multitalented, participating in hunting, man trailing and tracking, while also having a sweet, loving and loyal personality.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 6
AKC Rank: 115
Difference: 109
The Tibetan spaniel is a small purebred, only weighing between nine and 15 pounds; but despite its small stature, this underrated canine makes a great watchdog. Along with easy training and moderate maintenance, this dog has a cheerful and independent temperament and is playful around children.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 62
AKC Rank: 175
Difference: 113
The Skye terrier showcases great watchdog abilities and is extremely loyal to its family by barking when intruders lurk nearby. This breed's maximum life expectancy reaches 14 years.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 37
AKC Rank: 151
Difference: 114
Originating from the United Kingdom, this sporting dog can weigh between 60 and 70 pounds. Take one look at the curly-coated retriever's sweet face, and you may wonder why it is not more popular.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 25
AKC Rank: 146
Difference: 121
The Bedlington terrier's attention-grabbing looks, easy training, and minimal shedding combined with its relatively low popularity make this Fido friend extremely underrated.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 19
AKC Rank: 144
Difference: 125
The Irish water spaniel, also known as a "bog dog," has a thick and water-repellent coat much like a poodle. The breed is easy to train and is great with children.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 18
AKC Rank: 147
Difference: 129
The Greyhound tops the AKC's 2015 popularity ranking at No. 147. However, this breed is highly intelligent, quiet and loving, making it a wonderful underrated companion.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 20
AKC Rank: 152
Difference: 132
Don't be fooled by the massive size of the Scottish deerhound. Despite standing from 30 to 32 inches, this giant purebred has a sweet and affectionate temperament and is good with children.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 1
AKC Rank: 137
Difference: 136
If you hate dealing with dog hair, the Manchester terrier should not be overlooked. This breed experiences minimal shedding and requires infrequent grooming to maintain a healthy coat.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
- Updated
PetBreeds Index: 3
AKC Rank: 168
Difference: 165
This medium purebred originates from Ireland and is known for its loyal and courageous behavior. The Glen of Imaal terrier's redeeming qualities include: easy training, its quite nature, and its great temperament with kids.
More like this...
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
Labrador retrievers and German shepherds remain among the most popular dog breeds year after year, but some underrated breeds like the Bedlington terrier and the Tibetian spaniel, despite lower ranks in popularity, have outstanding qualities making them the perfect Fido friends.
Data analysts at PetBreeds, a Graphiq vertical search engine, acquired data from the American Kennel Club’s 2015 dog breed rankings, developed an index and compiled a list of the most underrated dogs. The PetBreeds Index combines seven different breed criteria including: intelligence, longevity, health, lifetime costs, general maintenance, adaptability and protective/guard skills.
Of the 184 pups recognized by the AKC, the breeds showing the largest positive improvements between the PetBreeds Index and the AKC’s ranking were considered the most underrated. In the case of ties, the breeds were listed alphabetically. Some dogs on this list, like the Greyhound are well-known, while others are more obscure. Find out which underestimated canine companion tops the charts.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 53
AKC Rank: 122
Difference: 69
The smooth fox terrier is just as cute and playful as a Jack Russell, and training this breed won't require much effort.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 98
AKC Rank: 171
Difference: 73
The pharaoh hound is one of the oldest domesticated dogs in recorded history. The breed is exceedingly talented in a wide range of activities, including sighting and hunting.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 26
AKC Rank: 99
Difference: 73
The AKC first recognized the Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever in 2003. This breed is known for being gentle and is great around children.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 5
AKC Rank: 79
Difference: 74
The Staffordshire bull terrier, known to be courageous and loyal, will protect its owner against an intruder.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 51
AKC Rank: 129
Difference: 78
The English toy spaniel is an adorable toy purebred with a quiet and loyal demeanor. The breed can adapt to apartment living and can handle cold weather.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 7
AKC Rank: 86
Difference: 79
The flat-coated retriever, sharing roots with the popular Labrador retriever, differs in popularity compared to its well-known relative despite having a longer life expectancy.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 50
AKC Rank: 135
Difference: 85
The Xoloitzcuintli, also called the "Mexican hairless," experiences minimal shedding, easy training and great watchdog ability. Shockingly, this breed has a 14- to 20-year life expectancy.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 23
AKC Rank: 108
Difference: 85
The Welsh terrier, No. 108 on AKC's popularity list, is known for its alert, energetic and friendly disposition. This breed is multitalented and participates in many activities including hunting and tracking.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 29
AKC Rank: 114
Difference: 85
The pointers first appeared in England in 1650, but despite being around for over three centuries, this breed;s popularity remains low (No. 114). This hardworking and sweet pup is a good choice for active dog owners.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 92
AKC Rank: 180
Difference: 88
The otterhound, a medium purebred, originates from the United Kingdom. The otterhound is an extremely rare breed. It is more rare than the endangered giant panda.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 22
AKC Rank: 111
Difference: 89
The Parson Russell terrier will keep its owners on their feet with its energetic disposition. While the Jack Russell terrier is more popular, the Parson Russell terrier is easier to train.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 71
AKC Rank: 161
Difference: 90
If you don't mind regular grooming, the Lowchen is a gorgeous breed with a long, flowing and hypoallergenic coat. The breed can be demanding of your attention, but its affectionate, loyal and playful temperament and easy training makes this underrated dog a great Fido friend.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 28
AKC Rank: 121
Difference: 93
The miniature bull terrier might not be as popular as the standard size of the breed – the bull terrier is the face of Target – but this miniature pup is easy to train and requires little grooming or maintenance.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 52
AKC Rank: 145
Difference: 93
If you are looking for a social breed, then the field spaniel might be a good choice for you. The breed is great around kids and has a cheerful temperament.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 78
AKC Rank: 173
Difference: 95
Named after Sussex, England, the Sussex spaniel with its gorgeous, silky coat, trains easily and barks frequently, often to alert its owners when an intruder is near.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 45
AKC Rank: 141
Difference: 96
The Lakeland terrier originates from the United Kingdom and is known for participating in hunting and tracking activities. This breed's low popularity should not detract from its amazing 12- to 16-year life expectancy.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 38
AKC Rank: 136
Difference: 98
The Affenpinscher's nickname "monkey dog" can be attributed to its distinct appearance. While this German purebred does not shed much, it does require frequent grooming.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 57
AKC Rank: 157
Difference: 100
While this breed ranks low in popularity, it excels in a large number of skills. American water spaniels are particularly good at agility, retrieving, hunting and tracking.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 27
AKC Rank: 128
Difference: 101
Appropriately named, the Welsh springer spaniel definitely has a spring in its step. This active breed is ideal for owners who enjoy hunting and staying active.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 65
AKC Rank: 172
Difference: 107
It can be hard to track down a local Dandie Dinmont terrier breeder, but these terriers excel at hunting, have an affectionate temperament and do not shed.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 74
AKC Rank: 181
Difference: 107
If you love hound dogs, then give the American foxhound a chance. The large purebred is known to be multitalented, participating in hunting, man trailing and tracking, while also having a sweet, loving and loyal personality.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 6
AKC Rank: 115
Difference: 109
The Tibetan spaniel is a small purebred, only weighing between nine and 15 pounds; but despite its small stature, this underrated canine makes a great watchdog. Along with easy training and moderate maintenance, this dog has a cheerful and independent temperament and is playful around children.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 62
AKC Rank: 175
Difference: 113
The Skye terrier showcases great watchdog abilities and is extremely loyal to its family by barking when intruders lurk nearby. This breed's maximum life expectancy reaches 14 years.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 37
AKC Rank: 151
Difference: 114
Originating from the United Kingdom, this sporting dog can weigh between 60 and 70 pounds. Take one look at the curly-coated retriever's sweet face, and you may wonder why it is not more popular.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 25
AKC Rank: 146
Difference: 121
The Bedlington terrier's attention-grabbing looks, easy training, and minimal shedding combined with its relatively low popularity make this Fido friend extremely underrated.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 19
AKC Rank: 144
Difference: 125
The Irish water spaniel, also known as a "bog dog," has a thick and water-repellent coat much like a poodle. The breed is easy to train and is great with children.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 18
AKC Rank: 147
Difference: 129
The Greyhound tops the AKC's 2015 popularity ranking at No. 147. However, this breed is highly intelligent, quiet and loving, making it a wonderful underrated companion.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 20
AKC Rank: 152
Difference: 132
Don't be fooled by the massive size of the Scottish deerhound. Despite standing from 30 to 32 inches, this giant purebred has a sweet and affectionate temperament and is good with children.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 1
AKC Rank: 137
Difference: 136
If you hate dealing with dog hair, the Manchester terrier should not be overlooked. This breed experiences minimal shedding and requires infrequent grooming to maintain a healthy coat.
- Data curated by PetBreeds.com
PetBreeds Index: 3
AKC Rank: 168
Difference: 165
This medium purebred originates from Ireland and is known for its loyal and courageous behavior. The Glen of Imaal terrier's redeeming qualities include: easy training, its quite nature, and its great temperament with kids.
More like this...
More information
Most Popular
-
Lake Mead's drops raise prospect of unaffordable Hoover Dam electricity -
Tucson's San Xavier Mission is ready for her close-up
-
'Copper corridor' revival could bring jobs, pollution back to Arizona town
-
Speed limits lowered on streets across Tucson
-
Arizona men's basketball not relying heavily on transfer portal again so far this spring
