Multiple Dog Breeds Endangered Or Even Facing Extinction
If you’re a dog lover, you may be surprised to hear that there are quite a few dog breeds, including the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, that are endangered or even on the verge of extinction. When you think of “man’s best friend,” it’s common to consider how there’s an overpopulation of dogs in shelters and how there’s a huge need for adoptions.
It’s not a common thought to consider the fact that some dog breeds are slipping away. Whether it’s because that certain type of dog isn’t needed for a specific job anymore or the dog breeds are too often overlooked as a possible pet, the problem does exist.
Take the time to educate yourself a bit on the various dog breeds facing endangerment or extinction, and consider what you can do as a dog lover to help turn a bad situation into good. Here is a brief overview of a few of the most vulnerable dog breeds on the planet.
The Scottish Deerhound is one of the world’s rare dog breeds. It looks a bit like an Irish Wolfhound, but the Scottish Deerhound originated in the hills of Scotland. This dog is well known for its ability to hunt deer. In the old days, this was a dog breed that often served as a noble companion to revered Scottish chieftains.
The Scottish Deerhound is a tall and skinny dog with a shaggy coat. They are typically very gentle and calm dogs, and this particular breed has played a vital role in Scottish history. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Scottish Deerhounds almost went extinct.
However, a handful of breed enthusiasts took matters into their own hands in the late 19th century and revived the Scottish Deerhound’s numbers. They still remain rare today, but at least they aren’t entirely gone.
Another one of the world’s most vulnerable dog breeds is the Otterhound. You may have never even heard of this pup. The Otterhound is so close to being wiped out that it is officially more rare than the white rhino. There are fewer than 1,000 Otterhounds on the planet today.
As their name suggests, the Otterhound was originally bred to help guard and protect the Scottish fishing industry from otters. In 2002, the UK banned hunting otters, and the Otterhound began steadily decreasing in numbers.
As one of the dog breeds that is super vulnerable to extinction, people must see them for more than just their ability to sniff out otters. The breed is also well known for its calm disposition, and an Otterhound would make a great pet for any adventurous dog owner looking for a new pal.
Last, but never least, the Tibetan Mastiff is one of the notable dog breeds on the brink of disappearing. The Tibetan Mastiff is a huge dog (in comparison), typically weighing more than 100 pounds (some males can get up to 150 pounds).
The Tibetan Mastiff originated in the Himalayan mountains, traditionally placed in the role of guardian for local livestock, monasteries, and even various nomadic camps.
Political and cultural issues among the people of Tibet are to blame for the endangerment of the Tibetan Mastiff. While there have been efforts by enthusiasts worldwide to revive the Tibetan Mastiff numbers, this is still one of the most vulnerable dog breeds on the planet.
In the age of robot dogs and other mechanical manners of mayhem, the organic importance of biodiversity remains. If you’re a dog lover who has a little more space in their life for another companion, consider adopting one of these vulnerable dog breeds.
Source: Dogtime.com
