Most of us can name the usual favorites of the dog world: Golden Retrievers, Labradors, Poodles and Frenchies always seem to steal the spotlight. But beyond those familiar faces are some equally lovable and underrated dog breeds just waiting to be discovered.
We asked Dr. Liza Cahn, DVM, veterinary consultant at Embrace Pet Insurance, about the lesser-known dog breeds that may not be featured on any “most popular” lists but still have plenty of personality, charm and loyalty to spare.
From affectionate companions with big hearts to clever working pups with big energy, our expert thinks these unique and overlooked dog breeds deserve a little extra love—and one of them might just be your perfect dog breed match.
Related:7 of the Prettiest Dog Breeds You’ll Ever Meet, According to Experts
The 7 Most Underrated Dog Breeds
Let’s meet some underrated and rare dog breeds worth knowing—you’ll wish you knew about these pups sooner!
The Glen of Imaal is a very underrated and lesser-known dog breed!
1. Glen of Imaal Terrier
The Glen of Imaal Terrier is an uncommon dog breed that, like several others here, ranks near the bottom of the AKC’s Most Popular Dog Breeds list.
“If you’re looking for a small dog who is slightly calmer and less vocal than the typical terrier, you may want to consider this rare Irish breed,” says Dr. Cahn. “They are known for being loyal, scrappy, affectionate and happy to lounge on the couch with the family once their energy needs are met.”
Like the Corgi, a much more recognized breed than the lesser-known Glen of Imaal, these cute pups actually have a form of dwarfism, resulting in their shorter legs.
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Personality: Spirited, gentle, bold
The Field Spaniel is a great, underrated alternative to the Cocker Spaniel.
2. Field Spaniel
The next underrated dog breed? The Field Spaniel! These pups are similar in appearance to the Cocker Spaniel, especially the English variety, but tend to be calmer and more even-tempered.
“This lesser-known Spaniel is friendly and intelligent, often excelling at dog sports and outdoor activities, and slightly less hyper than other Spaniels,” Dr. Cahn states. “They have a sweet and steady temperament, although can be shy without proper socialization.”
If you like the looks of the Cocker or English Springer Spaniels but would prefer a more docile breed, the loving Field Spaniel could be the perfect hidden-gem dog for you.
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Personality: Sweet, fun-loving, sensitive
The Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is sweet and low-shedding, making it another underrated breed.
3. Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier
Another underrated terrier, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier is a unique dog with a signature wheat-colored, satiny coat that truly lives up to its name.
“These soft and silky pups are sweet, playful and intelligent. Although less well recognized than Poodles, they also have low-shedding coats (which require moderate grooming) and make a good choice for people with allergies,” Dr. Cahn says.
Something to keep in mind? “They are predisposed to medical conditions such as protein-losing nephropathy and protein-losing enteropathy,” she adds.
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Personality: Friendly, happy, devoted
Chinooks are a beautiful hidden-gem dog breed.
4. Chinook
The Chinook is a unique dog breed you’ve probably never heard of, but they’re definitely worth knowing. In 1965, Guinness World Records even named them the rarest dogs in the world. Today, they’re the official state dog of New Hampshire, though still uncommon.
“This rare breed from New Hampshire was originally used as sled dogs,” Dr. Cahn states. “Their dense fur coats keep them warm in cold climates, and they will love to accompany you on outdoor adventures.”
“They are also known for being gentle, loyal, hard workers and excellent family pets,” she adds. And on top of that, these overlooked dogs are incredibly beautiful!
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Personality: Devoted, smart, patient
Related:10 Adorable Signs Your Dog Is Happy, According to Experts
Portuguese Water Dogs may look like Poodles, but they’re another overlooked dog breed!
5. Portuguese Water Dog
The Portuguese Water Dog is an especially underrated dog breed for families—and all the more if you’re an adventurous bunch, because this breed was born for the water.
“Often mistaken for a Poodle mix, this distinct breed is goofy, highly intelligent and loves to swim,” says Dr. Cahn. “Their waterproof, non-shedding coat requires professional grooming but makes them a great choice for active families with allergies.”
In more recent years, Portuguese Water Dogs have seen a slight increase in popularity thanks to the Obama family’s Water Dogs, Bo and Sunny, but they’re still largely a hidden gem of a breed.
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Personality: Affectionate, adventurous, athletic
Two happy American Staffordshire Terriers, a Pit Bull breed that’s often overlooked
6. Pit Bull
You can’t have a list of dog breeds that deserve more love without mentioning Pit Bulls! According to Dr. Cahn, “The term Pit Bull does not apply to a single breed of dog, but rather a type with similar features and common ancestry.”
Some of the most popular Pit Bull breeds include the American Staffordshire Terrier (shown above), the American Pit Bull Terrier and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier.
“Pit Bull dogs may have a reputation for being tough, but in reality, and with proper training and socialization, they can be sweet goofballs,” adds Dr. Cahn. “They thrive in loving homes with plenty of attention, exercise and mental stimulation.”
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Personality: Friendly, playful, affectionate
Mixed-breed dogs come in all shapes and sizes and are very underrated canine companions.
7. Mixed Breed
Our final hidden-gem dog breed is another that isn’t actually a specific breed itself: They’re the dogs with mixed genetics, or “mutts,” as they tend to be called. “Mixed-breed dogs are often underrated,” says Dr. Cahn, “but adopting a ‘mutt’ can be highly rewarding.”
“Thanks to their diverse genetic background, mixed breeds are often hardy and healthy,” she adds. “They also come in a wide range of sizes, coat types and temperaments, making it easier to find one that perfectly fits your lifestyle.”
So, if you’re searching for an overlooked dog to take home, there are always plenty of unique mixed-breed pups waiting to be loved at animal shelters everywhere.
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This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Nov 5, 2025, where it first appeared in the Dogs section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.