Saved From Extinction: Endangered Dog Breeds Brought Back From the Brink

In this episode of Down and Back: Stories From the American Kennel Club Archives, we explore the ebb and flow of different dog breeds throughout history and what some extraordinary people have done (and are currently doing) to bring breeds back from the brink.

Ever since the first human domesticated the first canine, our species have been forever intricately linked. Throughout history, dogs have lessened our load, protected our assets, and been faithful companions. So, it’s only fair we return the favor. But, when a purpose-bred dog breed has fulfilled its purpose, who helps preserve four-legged family lines? The champions of endangered breeds, that’s who. They create breed awareness, fund breeding programs, and even collect “seeds” to keep beloved breeds from going extinct. Find out more about the dedicated cynophiles who have kept their favorite breeds’ extinction at bay.

Bonafide Bits:
• In 1949, Frida Kahlo affectionately includes her beloved Señor Xolotl in her poignant “The Love Embrace of the Universe, the Earth, Myself, Diego, and Señor Xolotl.”
• In 1955, Archduchess Felix of Austria funded an expedition led by Norman Pelham Wright to find the endangered Xoloitzcuintli for breeding purposes.
• Food shortages and atomic bombs almost wiped out Akitas.
• During World War II, Great Pyrenees hauled artillery over the Pyrenees mountains to aid French soldiers.
• The Red Army of communist China exacerbated the decline of the Chinese Shar-Pei.
• There are fewer than 800 Otterhounds left, making them rarer than the giant panda.

Featured Breeds:

Xoloitzcuintli

Weimaraner

Otterhound

Leonberger

Akita

Polish Lowland Sheepdog

Great Pyrenees

Chinese Shar-Pei

Dandie Dinmont Terrier