Saved From Extinction: Endangered Dog Breeds Brought Back From the Brink

Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast

In this podcast episode, we will be exploring the ebb and flow of different dog breeds throughout history and what some extraordinary people have done (and are currently doing) to bring breeds back from the brink.

Ever since the first human domesticated the first canine, our species have been forever intricately linked. Throughout history, dogs have lessened our load, protected our assets, and been faithful companions. So, it’s only fair we return the favor. But, when a purpose-bred dog breed has fulfilled its purpose, who helps preserve four-legged family lines? The champions of endangered breeds, that’s who. They create breed awareness, fund breeding programs, and even collect “seeds” to keep beloved breeds from going extinct. Find out more about the dedicated cynophiles who have kept their favorite breeds’ extinction at bay.

Bonafide Bits:

• In 1949, Frida Kahlo affectionately includes her beloved Señor Xolotl in her poignant “The Love Embrace of the Universe, the Earth, Myself, Diego, and Señor Xolotl.”
• In 1955, Archduchess Felix of Austria funded an expedition led by Norman Pelham Wright to find the endangered Xoloitzcuintli for breeding purposes.
• Food shortages and atomic bombs almost wiped out Akitas.
• During World War II, Great Pyrenees hauled artillery over the Pyrenees mountains to aid French soldiers.
• The Red Army of communist China exacerbated the decline of the Chinese Shar-Pei.
• There are fewer than 800 Otterhounds left, making them rarer than the giant panda.

Featured Breeds:

Xoloitzcuintli

The 3,000-year-old Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced "show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee"), the ancient Aztec dog of the gods, is today a loving companion and vigilant watchdog. The alert and loyal Xolo comes in three sizes, and either hairless or coated varieties. Discover more about Xoloitzcuintlis at AKC’s Xoloitzcuintli Dog Breed Biography.

Weimaraner

The Weimaraner, Germany’s sleek and swift “Gray Ghost,” is beloved by hunters and pet owners alike for their friendliness, obedience, and beauty. They enjoy exercise, and plenty of it, along with lots of quality time with their humans. Discover more about Weimaraners at AKC’s Weimaraner Breed Biography.

Otterhound

Big, boisterous, and affectionate, the Otterhound was bred in medieval England for the now-outlawed activity of otter hunting. This scarce breed is known for his dense shaggy coat, webbed feet, acute sense of smell, and affinity for swimming. Discover more about Otterhounds at AKC’s Otterhound Breed Biography.

Leonberger

The Leonberger is a lush-coated giant of German origin. They have a gentle nature and serene patience and they relish the companionship of the whole family. Discover more about Leonbergers at AKC’s Leonberger Breed Biography.

Akita

Akitas are muscular, double-coated dogs of ancient Japanese lineage famous for their dignity, courage, and loyalty. In their native land, they are venerated as family protectors and symbols of good health, happiness, and long life. Discover more about Akitas at AKC’s Akita Breed Biography.

Polish Lowland Sheepdog

A shaggy-coated herding dog who thrives on exercise and hard work, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is clever, confident, and a bit stubborn. Compact, alert, and adaptable, they are beloved companions and watchdogs of Polish city dwellers. Discover more about Polish Lowland Sheepdogs at AKC’s Polish Lowland Sheepdogs Breed Biography.

Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a large, thickly coated, and immensely powerful working dog bred to deter sheep-stealing wolves and other predators on snowy mountaintops. Pyrs today are mellow companions and vigilant guardians of home and family. Discover more about Great Pyrenees at AKC’s Great Pyrenees Breed Biography.

Chinese Shar-Pei

This fascinating but challenging breed of ancient pedigree is steadfastly loyal to family but standoffish with strangers. The Chinese Shar-Pei has physical characteristics that make him a one-of-a-kind companion and guardian dog. Discover more about Chinese Shar-Peis at AKC’s Chinese Shar-Pei Breed Biography.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The unique-looking Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a tough but dignified little exterminator. Sturdily built for the rigors of farm life, they will agreeably adapt to city living. Dandies are compact companions blessed with a big personality. Discover more about Dandie Dinmont Terriers at AKC’s Dandie Dinmont Terrier Breed Biography.

Komondor

A powerfully large Hungarian flock guardian covered in profuse white cords from head to tail, the Komondor is among the world’s most recognizable breeds. The independent and protective Kom requires a firm, experienced hand at training. Discover more about Komondors at AKC’s Komondor Breed Biography.

Sussex Spaniel

"Placid, affectionate, even-tempered, true-blue, loyal" — all are words used to describe the Sussex Spaniel, a slow-but-steady hunter, and congenial house dog. His frowning expression is delightfully at odds with a typically cheerful nature. Discover more about Sussex Spaniels at AKC’s Sussex Spaniel Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

The Otterhound is rarer than the giant panda. Right now there are fewer than 800 Otterhounds globally.

Dog breed extinction can happen for many reasons, but it is typically linked to societal disruption and upheaval.

Fossilized remains of a Great Pyrenees have been dated back to 1000 BC.