Rare vulnerable native breeds

Rare vulnerable native breeds | Crufts

Did you know that there is a group of British dog breeds that are now getting so rare that they are at risk of disappearing from our homes and parks altogether? Many of these breeds are declining because they aren’t considered fashionable, or simply because people don’t know they exist. A few of these vulnerable native breeds are some of the oldest breeds in existence, and they deserve to be given the same consideration as the most popular dog breeds when choosing a puppy. 

Rare vulnerable native breeds | Crufts

When choosing a dog breed, most people will either look at current fashions and the dogs owned by their favourite celebrities, or they will consider the breeds owned by family and friends. It’s quite surprising to think that the ten most in-demand dog breeds registered by The Kennel Club account for 60% of the total annual registrations!

 

Rare British breeds at Crufts

We’re lucky to have over 200 dog breeds in the UK, each with different traits and characteristics, so would-be owners can find their match, rather than simply the most popular or obvious choice. So why not dive in to look at some of the most beautiful, rare native dog breeds to see if any of them could be your new best friend? The Kennel Club’s Vulnerable Native Breed list monitors breeds of British and Irish origin with fewer than 300 puppies born and registered annually. There is a dedicated Vulnerable Native Breeds competition held at Crufts every year, where qualifying dogs can compete. This is a great way to see all the rare British breeds shown side by side to help you choose which one could be your next puppy. You can also meet more vulnerable native breeds at the Discover Dogs area of Crufts and speak to experts about what they are like to own and live with.

To find out more about this competition and how to qualify, visit the Crufts website for the full details.

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Choose the right dog size for you

Look at some of the most beautiful, rare native dog breeds to see if any of them could be your new best friend? Most people have a preference when it comes to large or small dog breeds. However, this is actually very important to consider when deciding if a dog is the right fit for you and your lifestyle, especially if you live in a smaller space like a flat or a small house. Rare small dog breeds such as the Smooth Fox Terrier and the Glen of Imaal Terrier from the Terrier group tend to be spirited and fun, and could prove excellent walking companions. Medium-sized breeds can be a very versatile choice for active families and are a good size to take out and about. Some mid-sized rare British dog breeds include the Field Spaniel, the English Setter, and the Kerry Blue Terrier. If you have enough space, larger breeds of dog can be incredibly friendly and laid back, making them great family pets. Larger rare dog breeds like the Curly Coated Retriever and the Deerhound have a dedicated following due to their loyal and calm nature.

How much grooming they will need

The coats of different breeds of dog will vary in length and texture, so grooming techniques that work for one breed may not work at all for another. Dogs with smooth coats, such as the Smooth Collie, tend to need less grooming compared to longer-haired breeds such as the Irish Red & White Setter. There are also rare breeds of dog that have coats that shed frequently, such as the Skye Terrier, and they will need regular grooming to keep on top of it. There are also some rare dog breeds that either shed very little, such as the Irish Water Spaniel and the Dandie Dinmont Terrier. Breeds like these may need specialist grooming by either you or a groomer to stay healthy and matt-free.

Choose a breed of dog that will suit your lifestyle

It's important to think about the exercise needs of different breeds of dog before bringing one home. Choosing the right breed of dog that suits your lifestyle will make both you and your dog happier, more content, and will build a stronger bond between you. If you lead an active life or are looking for a dog more suited to being out and about, then a higher-energy breed, such as the Bearded Collie and Field Spaniel could be a great match for you. On the other hand, if being curled up in front of the TV with a blanket is more your style then an English Toy Terrier could make the perfect snuggle buddy.

 

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