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Some dogs were nearly lost to history, only to come back stronger, fluffier, and possibly more dramatic than ever. These resilient breeds stared extinction in the face and said, “Nope.” War, famine, industrialization, and sometimes just plain fashion trends nearly wiped them out, but they survived thanks to devoted breeders, lucky twists of fate, and occasional royal intervention. And thank goodness they did—because the dog world would be much less interesting without them. Each breed has an epic comeback story.
Tibetan Mastiff
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With their lion-like manes and serious presence, Tibetan Mastiffs were once guardians of monasteries high in the Himalayas. But as modernization reached Tibet, their numbers dwindled. These dogs were so rare outside of their homeland that they were considered mythic for years. Thankfully, breeders worked to preserve this ancient protector, and today, their majestic looks and loyal temperament are celebrated worldwide. Bonus: they still guard your home like it’s a sacred temple.
Otterhound
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You may not have heard of the Otterhound—that’s the point. This shaggy, aquatic scent hound was once a key player in otter hunting (yes, that was a thing), but when it became illegal, so did their job. Their numbers plunged, and they were rarer than pandas for a while. But enthusiasts fought hard to keep the breed alive. Today, Otterhounds are beloved for their goofy charm and excellent water skills, even if they’re retrieving pool toys now.
Norwegian Lundehund
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The Norwegian Lundehund is a breed that practically redefines “weird in the best way.” With six toes on each foot and the ability to contort like a canine yogi, they were originally used to scale cliffs and hunt puffins. But after World War II, only a handful remained. Through careful breeding programs, the population was restored—but they’re still incredibly rare. Their quirky traits make them fascinating survivors of both history and biology.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
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With their long bodies, fluffy topknots, and soulful eyes, Dandie Dinmont Terriers look like characters from a Victorian novel—and they almost became a footnote in one. Once popular with nobility and even featured in literature, their numbers dwindled in the 20th century. But a dedicated group of breeders kept them going. They’re enjoying a quiet revival, strutting through dog shows like they never missed a beat.
Sloughi
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The Sloughi, or Arabian Greyhound, is a sighthound that once roamed the deserts of North Africa, prized for speed and loyalty. Colonialism, war, and modern breeding trends pushed them to the edge of extinction, but preservation efforts in Morocco and other regions kept their lineage alive. Today, they’re sleek, elegant, and still as mysterious as a mirage—perfect for anyone who wants a regal dog with a dramatic backstory.
Skye Terrier
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Skye Terriers were once royal favorites in Britain, especially under Queen Victoria. But fashion shifted, and these long-bodied, short-legged charmers fell out of favor. Their numbers dropped so low that conservationists raised alarms. Fortunately, those signature flowing coats and spunky personalities won enough people over to keep them going. They’re still on the rare side, but their comeback is a shaggy success story.
Lagotto Romagnolo
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The Lagotto Romagnolo is a curly-haired truffle-hunter from Italy that almost disappeared when other breeds took over its niche. For years, this intelligent, hardworking dog was forgotten outside rural areas. But the breed bounced back thanks to the booming truffle industry and a rediscovery of its talents. Now they’re making appearances in competitions, kitchens, and maybe even your Instagram feed—proof that usefulness never goes out of style.
Chinook
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Bred in New Hampshire for sledding, the Chinook is the underappreciated sled dog you didn’t know you needed. After the death of the breed’s founder, their numbers plummeted, and at one point, there were only a handful left. But thanks to passionate fans, this all-American breed made a quiet but determined return. They’re now recognized for their strength, loyalty, and love of a good snow day.
Irish Wolfhound
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Yes, the majestic Irish Wolfhound almost didn’t make it. Originally bred to hunt wolves and guard castles, their role vanished when wolves did. Combine that with wars and famine in Ireland, and they were nearly wiped out. But these giant sweethearts made a full comeback through noble effort—literally, a few noble families helped. Today, they’re cherished for their gentle souls and colossal hugs.
The Tail-End Survivors Who Wrote Their Own Comeback Stories
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They’ve dodged extinction, outlived fashion fads, and proven that true dog greatness never goes out of style. These breeds didn’t just survive—they strutted back into the spotlight, tails high and tongues out, like furry legends making a comeback tour. Some went from palace courtyards to near-forgotten corners of history, only to be rediscovered by those who knew greatness when they saw it. They’re not just dogs—stories wrapped in fur, walking proof that resilience comes with four paws and an unshakable spirit (plus, occasionally, a dramatic head tilt).
Toledo, United States.