"What Kind of Dog is That?" 5 Breeds You (Probably) Didn't Know Existed

In case you didn't know, there are over 340 dog breeds existing in our world today. 340 different types of dogs doing tricks for treats, stealing their human's socks, and sniffing everything in existence....all around the world.

Now that you've let that sink in for a moment, imagine how many different types of dogs you've never seen before!

Alright, I know you can't really imagine something you've never seen before, but we think you'll be fascinated by these five unique breeds:

1. Finnish Spitz

Image by 596770 from Pixabay 

You're probably thinking "hey, that little guy kind of looks like a Shibe!" And you're not wrong: Finnish Spitzes and Shiba Inus are both in the Spitz family of dogs. These fox-like pups were originally bred as hunting dogs in Finland, catching birds and small animals. The Finnish Spitz has a bold and humorous personality similar to the Shiba Inu and although they're smaller, they have equally high-energy and need lots of exercise. The Finnish Spitz usually has a reddish-orange coat. 

2. Kooikerhondje

Image by SHGAdipositas from Pixabay 

Yes, that's this breed's real name: it's Dutch for "small cager dog." The Kooikerhondje is a spaniel-type dog bred in the Netherlands to lure ducks into cages for their hunter-owners. These working-class pups are also gaining some popularity in Scandinavian countries and throughout North America for their small size and sweet and cuddly temperament. Fun fact: the "Kooiker" is purportedly in several famous paintings by Rembrandt. 

3. Thai Ridgeback

Image by janamathes from Pixabay

These strong, muscular, medium-sized dogs are seriously #fitnessgoals. Like the Rhodesian Ridgeback, the Thai Ridgeback has the distinctive stripe of hair across its ridged back that grows in the opposite direction of the rest of its coat. This breed's history is relatively unknown, but they are fiercely loyal, highly intelligent, and love families! However, experienced dog owners only: these guys are famous escape artists. 

4. Skye Terrier

Image by Wikimedia Commons

Hailing from Scotland, these bearded fellows could be mistaken for a Scottie (Scottish Terrier) or even a Mini Schnauzer. However, their butterfly-like ears and long "bangs" are an easy way to tell them apart.  The Skye Terrier was originally bred to hunt foxes in the Isle of Skye (how fitting!). Although they can be very stubborn, the Skye Terrier is a happy-go-lucky personality and makes a fun family pet!

5. Bergamasco Shepherd

Image by Wikimedia Commons

These fuzzy dudes have a hair trifecta going on. The first coat is thin and pretty oily, the second is a little wiry (think goat hair), and the top coat is all sorts of felted wool! Originally from the Italian Alps, these sheepdogs stayed nice and warm through the harsh winters while herding various animals. If you've ever seen the Komondor or Puli, you might be thinking they look similar. However, the Komondor and Puli have one coat of hair compared to the Bergamasco's three. The Bergamasco is known for having excellent self-control and they form an inseparable bond with their human! 

What's your favorite unusual breed? Comment below! 

5 Reasons Why Miniature Schnauzers are my Favorite Breed

Image by joangonzalez from Pixabay

I mean....c'mon. How can you *not* think that smiley little face is the cutest thing ever?!

But in all seriousness, I really do love Miniature Schnauzers. I first fell in love with the breed when I was in 2nd (or 3rd?) grade. We already had a 1-year-old Maltese named Sophie (who is now almost 15 and thriving!), and my parents felt that she needed a dog-friend. She loved her human family, but we knew a dog as young as her would really like a canine companion. It definitely helped that my dad had wanted to get a schnauzer for years. One day, my dad came home with this tiny black-and-white ball of fur and I was obsessed! We named her Heidi, as a cute German name is only appropriate for a cute German breed. Heidi unfortunately crossed the rainbow bridge almost four years ago, but I cherish the nine years we had together. I still miss how she'd stick her snout under my door when she wanted to come sleep in my room and snort until I answered.

Well, now that you know my personal backstory, here's more about why Miniature Schnauzers are the best dogs (to me):

1. Their way with words

Every Mini Schnauzer owner knows this: these dogs are super talkative. While most dogs just bark, howl and growl, Mini Schnauzers also sing, roll their Rs, yell, and probably even lecture you on why you should give them those carrots. This video is almost 12 years old, but it's still my absolute favorite. 

2. Owning a schnauzer is like having a fluffy little shadow

These little guys follow you everywhere - and I mean everywhere! I remember when I'd get ready for school in the mornings, Heidi would sit on the bathroom mat and watch me do my hair, brush my teeth, the whole routine. Sometimes she'd even barge in and open the door with her snout if I was showering. Like I said earlier, she slept in my room most nights. Sometimes I'd go to bed before she was ready and when this happened, she'd let me know by snorting and making little "woof!"s under my door until I finally woke up. After that, she'd sleep throughout the night. They're especially paw-some companion dogs for apartment-dwellers and city folk. 

3. Their (extremely) sassy and unique personalities

As you could probably tell from the video I shared, Mini Schnauzers have bold personalities. While most dog breeds have their own kind of personality (i.e., Golden Retrievers are always super happy and eager to please), Mini Schnauzers vary among a wide spectrum. This necessarily isn't a bad thing, though - they're like people! We used to always joke that Heidi was an old German man in her past life, and I honestly believe it. Their little faces are so expressive and they're not afraid to let you know if they're unhappy about getting groomed, or if they demand a taste of your human-food. On the flip side, they're also super affectionate and cannot wait for you to get home, wake up, or take them out for a walk!

4. Those professor brows and beard! 

Image by skeeze from Pixabay 

I'm just gonna let the picture do the talking on this one. See what I mean about the sass, though?

5. The incredible loyalty and love they give

You can find this in just about any dog (yay!), but Mini Schnauzers are fiercely loyal and loving companions. If your Mini isn't a big cuddler, I guarantee they still give you endless kisses or at least greet you in the morning with their paw stretches. These dogs have funny but sweet ways of showing you how much they love you! 

Whether you're a first-time owner or have tons of experience with other breeds, I tell literally everyone I know they should get a Mini Schnauzer. These fluffy guys really do brighten your life and provide constant entertainment, what's more to love?