Did you know there are over 300 dog breeds recognized across the globe?1 And that number is always changing as new breeds get introduced. So it’s no wonder that some breeds are rarer than others. At MetLife Pet Insurance, we’ve had the pleasure of insuring some unique and uncommon pups throughout the years. From stabyhouns to the American black and tan coonhound, our coverage extends to a diverse range of dog breeds.
Read on to discover some of the rarest dog breeds from our MetLife Pet Insurance members.2
Rare Dog Breeds Insured With MetLife Pet
Dutch sheepdog (Schapendoes)
Dutch Sheepdog at a Glance3 |
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Country of Origin the Netherlands |
Height
16 – 20 inches |
Weight
26 – 55 pounds |
Life Expectancy
12 – 15 years |
Coat Type
Thick and long |
The Dutch sheepdog, also known as the Schapendoes, is an attentive and creative breed from Holland. They are herding dogs who require plenty of exercise, as they love to run, jump, and play. Dutch sheepdogs are friendly, lively, and intelligent.3
Spanish greyhound (Galgo Español)
Spanish Greyhound at a Glance4 |
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Country of Origin Spain |
Height
24 – 28 inches |
Weight
50 – 65 pounds |
Life Expectancy
12 – 15 years |
Coat Type
Short, smooth, or rough |
The Spanish greyhound, also known as the Galgo Español, is a medium-sized hound from Spain. An ancestor of the English greyhound, this breed is very athletic with a sleek and narrow build. They have a moderate level of energy and a friendly and calm temperament.4
Stabyhoun
Stabyhoun at a Glance5 |
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Country of Origin the Netherlands |
Height
19 – 21 inches |
Weight
40 – 60 pounds |
Life Expectancy
13 – 15 years |
Coat Type
Smooth and short |
Originally bred for hunting moles and rabbits, the stabyhoun is an obedient dog with an independent nature. They can be very inquisitive, often exploring their surroundings — so it’s important to keep a watchful eye. Good with kids and other dogs, stabyhouns make great family pets.5
Miniature cocker spaniel
Miniature Cocker Spaniel at a Glance6 |
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Country of Origin Spain |
Height
13 – 15 inches |
Weight
15 – 30 pounds |
Life Expectancy
12 – 15 years |
Coat Type
Long and silky |
The miniature cocker spaniel is a tinier version of the standard cocker spaniel breed, with a similarly friendly and affectionate temperament. They are playful and energetic as well as highly intelligent and trainable. Their long coats require regular grooming to reduce shedding and matting.6
Olde Victorian Bulldogge
Olde Victorian Bulldogge at a Glance7 |
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Country of Origin England |
Height
18 – 20 inches |
Weight
55 – 100 pounds |
Life Expectancy
10 – 14 years |
Coat Type
Smooth and short |
The Olde Victorian Bulldogge is a newer breed developed by Carlos Woods.7 Similar to the Victorian bulldog, bred to be a healthier version of the English bulldog, this breed is intelligent and sociable.8 They can also be a stubborn breed that requires patience and consistent training.7
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Lancashire heeler
Lancashire Heeler at a Glance9 |
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Country of Origin Unknown |
Height
10 – 12 inches |
Weight
9 – 17 pounds |
Life Expectancy
12 – 15 years |
Coat Type
Short and dense |
A small and sturdy breed, the Lancashire heeler has a lot of energy for their tiny frame. Originally bred for cattle herding and catching rodents, Lancashire heelers have gained popularity for their affectionate nature. While their exact origins are unknown, it’s believed that the breed is derived from a Welsh corgi and Manchester terrier.9
American black and tan coonhound
American Black and Tan Coonhound at a Glance10 |
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Country of Origin United States |
Height
23 – 27 inches |
Weight
65 – 110 pounds |
Life Expectancy
10 – 12 years |
Coat Type
Short and dense |
The American black and tan coonhound is a cross between European hounds, foxhounds, and bloodhounds and was specifically developed for hunting raccoons during post-Revolutionary times. This breed is very athletic and active, but they can also be easy-going dogs who love to spend time with their pet parents.10
Portuguese Podengo
Portuguese Podengo at a Glance11 |
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Country of Origin Portugal |
Height
16 – 28 inches |
Weight
35 – 66 pounds |
Life Expectancy
10 – 15 years |
Coat Type
Smooth or wirehaired |
The Portuguese Podengo is a playful, alert, and intelligent dog. This breed comes in two sizes — the smaller was traditionally used for hunting rabbits, while the larger hunted deer and boar. Portuguese Podengos can be suspicious of strangers but are very loving toward their families.11
Belgian Tervuren
Belgian Tervuren at a Glance12 |
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Country of Origin Belgium |
Height
22 – 26 inches |
Weight
45 – 75 pounds |
Life Expectancy
12 – 14 years |
Coat Type
Medium and dense |
Bred for herding and guarding, the Belgian Tervuren is a protective, affectionate, and hardworking dog. Their intelligence and active nature mean they’ll need lots of exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day. They love to keep busy and are a good fit for someone with a similar lifestyle or mentality.12
American water spaniel
American Water Spaniel at a Glance13 |
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Country of Origin United States |
Height
15 – 18 inches |
Weight
25 – 45 pounds |
Life Expectancy
10 – 14 years |
Coat Type
Dense and curled/wavy |
The American water spaniel is an active breed that adores swimming and hunting, having been specifically bred to excel in these activities. They are joyful companions who eagerly seek opportunities to please and thrive when given a purpose. However, without sufficient mental and physical stimulation, American water spaniels can become destructive and overly barky.13
Protect Your Pup With Pet Insurance
Every dog deserves protection from accidents and illnesses to enjoy a long and healthy life. Pet insurance can provide peace of mind and financial security for pet parents, helping to ensure their beloved companions receive the care they need. With a MetLife Pet Insurance policy, you can be reimbursed for the cost of treatments, medications, routine checkups, and more. Ready to get started? Fetch your quote today.
