Did you know that there are now over 12 million dogs across the UK? While there are more furry snuggles and canine adventures through popular dog breeds like the Dachshund, unfortunately a woof load of well-established native breeds in the UK and Ireland dwindling towards extinction.
In fact, 32 dog breeds are ‘considered vulnerable’ by the Kennel Club. Those who have made this list are dog breeds with fewer than 300 registrations a year. Surprisingly, this list includes the King Charles Spaniel and Cardigan Welsh Corgi!
Kennel Club Secretary, Caroline Kisko, said: “We could lose even more of our most iconic and historic native dog breeds if people don’t look beyond the most obvious choices and start to explore the huge diversity of breeds we’re lucky enough to have in this country.”
Here’s 10 most at risk breeds of dog in the UK.
Otterhound
The Kennel Club believes that there are only 600 of these gorgeous breeds left in the world. In fact, just 7 Otterhounds were registered with the Kennel Club in 2020.
Skye Terrier
You may know this beloved breed from the famous statue of Greyfriars Bobby. This loyal breed but just 27 of them were registered in 2020.
Sussex Spaniel
This delightful breed is a heavily built gundog, with a heart of gold and a beautiful temperament. Only 44 were registered in 2020.
Field spaniel
Beautiful breed with silky locks that could make anyone jealous. Like most Spaniels, this breed needs plenty of exercise. A meagre 69 were registered with the Kennel Club in 2020.
Irish red and white setter
The Irish red and white setter escaped extinction once, but once again this gentle breed is slowly dwindling. Only 39 were registered in 2019.
Curly Coated Retriever
This curly pupper is both lively and fun loving! They make great family pets but need an active lifestyle. There were 55 registered in 2020.
Bloodhound
This droopy face is iconic in many cartoons and animations, but in real life they are both gentle and affectionate. Only 32 registered in 2020!
English Toy Terrier
These gorgeous black tan beauties are lovable and loyal. Just 75 of these were registered in 2020.
Smooth collie
These short-haired Lassies are clever, active and agile, Like most Collies they’re very easy to train too. Just 72 registered in 2020.
Glen of Imaal terrier
These native Irish terriers have an easy-going nature, but just 36 were registered in 2020.
Pembrokeshire Welsh corgi
This fluffy butt is famously known as the Queen’s favourite. But even with such a well-known affection, they’re still becoming less popular. Just 132 were registered in 2020.
Do You Have One Of These Rare Breeds?
Or perhaps you have some stories about spending time with one of these gorgeous canines? Let us know in the comments below.
For the full list of breeds who are vulnerable in the UK visit the Kennel Club. Click here for more guides on other dog breeds.
