The American Kennel Club Reveals Rarest Dog Breeds in the US

Move over, most popular! The American Kennel Club (AKC) has found the rarest dog breed in the United States.

After reviewing its registration statistics, the AKC found that the Norwegian Lundehund is the rarest dog breed in the country.

The Norwegian Lundehund, the only dog bred to hunt puffins, is truly one-of-a-kind. With six fully functional toes, a neck that can bend back to touch its spine, ears that fold shut to keep water out, and ultra-flexible shoulders that allow the forelegs to extend perpendicular to the body, this medium- to high-energy breed is as extraordinary as it is rare. Though scarce in the United States, breeds like the Norwegian Lundehund have centuries of history, serving a variety of purposes such as herding, hunting and carting.

“Rare breeds are living treasures,” said Gina M. DiNardo, AKC President and CEO of the AKC, the world’s largest registry of purebred and mixed-breed dogs and a leading voice for canine welfare and responsible ownership. “By shining a spotlight on these extraordinary breeds, we hope to educate the public and inspire responsible ownership. Choosing a rare breed is more than gaining a unique companion, it’s helping preserve a living piece of history. Every dog deserves a great home, and knowledge empowers owners to make the right choice for their lifestyle. Choosing to work with a responsible breeder to bring home one of these rare breeds is not just a personal joy, it helps ensure these remarkable dogs continue to thrive for generations to come.”

The 2025 rarest breeds in the United States are:

(Photo courtesy AKC)