As a dog lover, it’s always concerning to see once-popular breeds becoming rare. Some of the UK’s oldest and most iconic dogs are now in decline, facing a very uncertain future. There are various reasons for this, from changing lifestyles to a preference for more fashionable breeds. But these vulnerable dogs still have a lot to offer – whether it’s their history, loyalty, or unique appearance. Let’s take a look at 20 dog breeds in the UK that are at risk of fading away, unless we give them the attention they need.
Methodology
I pulled together this list based on data from the Kennel Club, looking at how many dogs from each breed were registered between 2014 and 2023. A breed is considered at risk if fewer than 300 puppies are registered in a year. It’s a good way to track which breeds are slowly disappearing, so we can understand which dogs need a bit more love and attention before they’re lost for good.
1. Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie has long been a charming, high-energy breed, but its numbers have dropped steadily over the years. In 2023, only 232 new registrations were made, which is a significant decline compared to the 371 registrations back in 2014. Known for their distinctive long coats, these affectionate dogs have fallen out of favour despite their suitability for active families.
2. Bloodhound
Despite their famous scent-tracking abilities, the Bloodhound has seen a worrying decline. In 2023, only 54 were registered, far fewer than the already modest 74 in 2014. This breed is known for its gentle, friendly nature, but its size and specific needs may be contributing to its rarity.
3. Bull Terrier (Miniature)
The Miniature Bull Terrier is another breed on the vulnerable list, with 264 registrations in 2023, down from 293 in the previous year. Despite their playful and spirited personalities, these sturdy little dogs face competition from more fashionable small breeds like French Bulldogs.
4. Smooth Collie
A lesser-known cousin of the Rough Collie, the Smooth Collie has struggled to maintain its numbers. With only 45 registrations in 2023, this breed has experienced a sharp decline from its peak of 89 in 2016. These intelligent, hardworking dogs are well-suited to active owners but are overshadowed by their more famous relatives.
5. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
This small, distinctive terrier is another breed on the brink, with just 102 registrations in 2023. Although their numbers have remained fairly stable in recent years, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier is still a rare sight in the UK, loved for its unique look and affectionate nature.
6. Deerhound
A historic Scottish breed, the Deerhound has seen a steady decline, with only 132 registered in 2023. These tall, noble dogs were once used for hunting deer, but their need for space and exercise may be why they’re becoming less popular with modern families.
7. English Setter
One of the UK’s most elegant breeds, the English Setter, saw 250 registrations in 2023, an increase from previous years, but still far below historical figures. Known for their gentle and friendly temperament, they require ample exercise, which might be a factor in their lower numbers.
8. Foxhound
The Foxhound is almost extinct as a registered breed, with only one new registration in 2023. Traditionally used in hunting packs, this breed’s decline mirrors the decreasing popularity of fox hunting and the challenges of owning such an active, large breed.
9. Glen of Imaal Terrier
Another terrier on the vulnerable list, the Glen of Imaal saw just 58 registrations in 2023. Known for their calm and steady nature compared to other terriers, their low numbers are surprising given their suitability for smaller living spaces.
10. Gordon Setter
The Gordon Setter, with only 137 registrations in 2023, is at risk despite being one of the most striking and loyal of the setter breeds. Their active, outdoor-loving nature may be less appealing to modern owners who prefer more adaptable dogs.
11. Greyhound
Although well known as a retired racing dog, the Greyhound saw just 35 new registrations in 2023. This gentle, easy-going breed has a devoted following, but more awareness is needed to ensure its continued presence outside of the racetrack.
12. Irish Wolfhound
The Irish Wolfhound, once the pride of Celtic warriors, had only 191 new registrations in 2023, continuing its downward trend. This giant breed, known for its gentle giant nature, requires a lot of space and care, which may deter many potential owners.
13. King Charles Spaniel
The King Charles Spaniel, a small and gentle breed, saw only 39 registrations in 2023. With its royal history, it’s surprising that this breed has declined so much in popularity, likely due to the rise of similar but more robust breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
14. Lakeland Terrier
A breed originating in the Lake District, the Lakeland Terrier had just 109 registrations in 2023. These hardy, energetic dogs are great for active homes, but their numbers have been steadily falling due to competition from more fashionable terrier breeds.
15. Manchester Terrier
Once a favourite in Victorian Britain, the Manchester Terrier had only 110 registrations in 2023. Known for their sleek appearance and lively temperament, they’re a great choice for city dwellers but have been overshadowed by other small dog breeds.
16. Mastiff
One of the UK’s oldest breeds, the Mastiff had only 69 registrations in 2023. Known for their imposing size and gentle nature, they require significant space and resources, which might explain their drop in popularity.
17. Otterhound
One of the rarest breeds on the list, the Otterhound had only 18 registrations in 2023. Originally bred for hunting otters, they are large, boisterous, and require a lot of space, which might contribute to their scarcity in modern times.
18. Skye Terrier
The Skye Terrier, famous for its long coat and loyalty, saw only 36 registrations in 2023. Once a beloved breed, especially in Scotland, it has become increasingly rare as other terriers have grown in popularity.
19. Sussex Spaniel
The Sussex Spaniel, a charming and slow-paced breed, had just 27 registrations in 2023. Known for their unique golden liver coat, these dogs are rare despite their good nature and suitability for more relaxed owners.
20. Welsh Springer Spaniel
The Welsh Springer Spaniel, with only 167 registrations in 2023, is often overshadowed by its English cousin. However, this breed is known for its energy and affectionate temperament, making it a perfect fit for active families.
Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
