These 11 Gorgeous Dog Breeds Are on the Edge of Extinction, and We Are Barking Mad

They’re as cute as they come, but that isn’t enough for these pups to get off of the “breeds at risk” list. Their records show that once loved and protected, some of these breeds have lost momentum. Less of them are born each year, putting them at risk of disappearing entirely.

Here at Bright Side we made up a list to raise awareness about the issue, just in case you decide you need one of these fellows in your life. The bonus may steal your heart!

Every year a British organization called The Kennel Club publishes a list of the most vulnerable dog breeds in the UK. Their US counterparts, The American Kennel Club, also list a ranking of popularity among breeds. Their results have worried many dog-loving people since some adorable breeds seem to be reproducing less and less. In short, people are not taking care of them, nor are they taking them in as pets, and they’re at risk of going extinct.

1. Pembrokeshire Welsh Corgi

It’s a dog fit for a queen...literally. Queen Elizabeth II’s pup may be living the life at Buckingham Palace, but the rest of the breed’s mates are not. Unfortunately, although smart and lovely, the number of pups born has been decreasing. The latest UK report showed that there were only 147 born in 2018.

2. The red and white Irish Setter

This breed is different than the red Irish Setter and unlike those guys, these dogs are hard to train and need to exercise a lot. They are kind and determined, but because of the amount of work they require, many opt for the all-red Setter pups instead, putting this breed in danger. As of 2018, The Kennel club only registered 51 of these dogs, and in the US, they rank at number 146 in popularity.

3. Glen of Imaal Terrier

Another cute Irish breed, these cuties were named after one of Ireland’s most remote locations. This terrier is not as temperamental as many small dogs and can be very gentle and strong at the same time. However, this may have been overlooked. They are unpopular in the US, ranking in the 174th spot and the estimated population born per year is only around 48 in the UK.

4. Mastiff

This ancient dog breed has its origins in a fierce war breed called the molossus that dates back some 7,000 years ago. Unlike its great-grandparents, the mastiff is adoring, calm, and protective. Sadly, the number of puppies born has been decreasing since 2007. Only 143 were listed in the dogs’ organization by UK owners in 2018. Maybe the US could save them; they’re number 29 of the more popular breeds.

5. Otterhound

It’s believed that only 39 of these puppies are born per year in their native UK, making them one of the most endangered breeds in the kingdom. They’re scarce in the US too, being one of the least popular breeds. The news is sad given that they’re pretty easy to take care of, good-natured with kids, and amicable. Their story goes back to centuries ago when the breed was developed to help disperse otters that ate the fish we were after.

6. Sealyham Terrier

Maybe it’s because their coat needs to be trimmed regularly or because of their high price, but we’re losing the Sealyham Terrier. They’re very unpopular in the US, and placed at 164 in the ranking of most popular breeds — only 107 were registered in The Kennel Club in 2018 which is a pity since they’re devoted to their owners and are one of the calmer, funnier terriers.

7. Sussex Spaniel

The Sussex Spaniel is a merry, affectionate, and calm dog. Some even consider them great pets but unfortunately, only 34 were entered into the UK records in 2018 and were positioned very low in popularity in America. With everyone’s busy schedules, a dog that needs a 2-hour walk daily is hard to fit into an agenda. For this reason, the breed has imposed a dilemma for its hard-working fans.

8. Smooth ​​​​​​​Collie

With just 77 Smooth Collies reported to The Kennel Club in 2018, this breed has been entered onto the list of the most vulnerable breeds. It’s these dogs that enjoy barking which might be the issue. These dogs look like ordinary collies; they’re just missing their short hair. They’re bright, energetic, and warm-hearted — a good trade-off for their incessant barking.

9. Curly-coated Retriever

Curly-coated Retrievers are attractive. They’re tall and covered with a curly coat of dark black or brown hair. They’re usually smart, confident, and elegant, and these agile swimmers are perfect pets for a day at the beach. Unfortunately, their numbers are dropping. They were given a ranking of 162 in popularity in the US and only 70 of these puppies were listed in the UK in 2018, which puts the breed closer to becoming extinct.

10. Field Spaniel

They have that silky hair that many would love to have, but no matter how charming, sensitive, and fun these dogs are, their numbers are decreasing. Just a few 48 newborn pups entered into The Kennel Club’s records in 2018 and Americans don’t consider them much as they rank at 149 in popularity. It may be because they’re industrious and need to do work, otherwise, they get bored and start looking for some fun.

11. Skye Terrier

Ranking at place 178 in America and with just 50 Skye Terriers reported to the British Dog’s Organization in 2018, that small number is worrisome. The breed is original to the Scottish island of Skye and was developed by farmers to keep foxes off their land. However, it was Queen Victoria who popularized these bright individuals. The dogs are so courageous and good-tempered that they’re considered to have the heart of a lion.

Bonus: Bloodhounds

You would think that this favorite police breed would be far from disappearing, but these puppies have many of their fans worried since in 2018, only 62 were registered. They’re determined, friendly, and drool like it’s their job. However, there’s still hope for them since they’re considered to be a popular breed in the US.

All of these pups are dangerously adorable, but it’s sad that we might not see too much of them in the future. Why do you think people prefer some breeds over other breeds or mixed dogs? Would you consider adopting one of these puppies? Share your ideas with the community!