Should Extremely Rare Breeds Get Special Risk Categories?

Last Sunday, I visited a friend who claimed he had adopted one of the rarest dog breeds, highlighting how little we know about rare breeds. It is only natural that we all pictured a grand breed with a regal bearing, perhaps something that would force us to lower our heads in its presence. Instead, he swung the door wide, and there was a small being that he held in his hands, which seemed to be a combination of a snowball, a squirrel, and a bewildered panda. The whole crowd was quiet for the full minute after that.

We didn’t know whether to pet it or ask it what planet it came from.

That sweet little revelation brought to my mind an important thing:

There are breeds of dogs that are so rare that even the biggest of dog-lovers would not even know about them. Apparently, if they are not protected now, these rare breeds will become extinct.

This brings us to the more significant query:

Should extremely rare breeds get special risk categories?

Let’s explore why this matters.

Very rare breeds are not merely curious animals; they are a kind of living museum, a story told over time through the interaction of nature, culture, and environment. The vanishing of such breeds signifies the disappearance of a non-replaceable portion of history.

Here’s why creating special risk categories is essential:

1. Rare Breeds Have Fragile Genetic Health

Because rare breeds come from small populations, they often face:

• Higher chances of genetic disorders
• Weak immune systems
• Difficulty in breeding
• Risk of hereditary diseases

Creating special risk categories ensures proper tracking, controlled breeding, and veterinary support. It helps prevent irreversible genetic damage.

2. The Extinction Threat Facing Rare Breeds Is Real

Only a few dog breeds that are considered rare have fewer than 100 registrants all over the world. This situation puts them at a very high risk of phase-out.

Imagine losing a breed that has survived for centuries, just because no one protected it soon enough.

Special categories can help by:

• Monitoring population numbers
• Preventing irresponsible breeding
• Encouraging conservation programs.

3. Lack of Public Awareness About Rare Breeds

To be quite frank, hardly anyone can claim to have ever come across an unusual breed like Keeshonds or Spinone Italianos. The least acknowledged ones are those that are frequently disregarded and not recognized. 

• Adoption interest remains low.
• Funding and support remain minimal.
• No one talks about their importance.
• Risk categories can bring attention to these breeds, inspiring people to appreciate and conserve them.

4. Protection from Unethical Breeders

Rarity often attracts the wrong kind of attention. Some breeders misuse the term “rare breed” just to increase prices.

Special risk categories can help ensure:

• Only certified breeders handle these breeds
• Health checks become mandatory
• Puppy mills cannot exploit rarity
• Breeding is done responsibly

This keeps both the breed and the owners safe.

5. Cultural and Historical Value

Many rare breeds originate from ancient tribes, rural communities, or specific regions. They represent tradition, survival, and identity.

Losing them means losing:

Special categories help protect cultural history, native biodiversity, and unique traits by supporting population monitoring, preventing extinction, promoting ethical breeding, and encouraging responsible ownership. However, challenges include stricter regulations, added paperwork, higher conservation costs, and the risk of misuse of the “rare breed” label by unethical sellers. But these issues can be controlled with strict guidelines and regular audits.

What Should a Special Risk Category Include?

Here’s how a strong protection framework might look:

• Mandatory genetic testing
• Annual population surveys
• Certified breeding licenses
• Owner awareness programs
• Government-supported conservation plans
• Partnerships with animal welfare organizations

The aforementioned measures will not place any unnecessary burden on the breeders or the owners while they help to keep the breed alive.

Why This Discussion Is Important Today

We are in a period where trends change almost instantaneously. One day, a breed is all over social media, and the next day, it is no longer of public interest.

Such unpredictability is totally beyond the ability of rare breeds to handle.

The very existence of every single breed, regardless of its size, is a factor that enriches the world with beauty, diversity, and balance. Hence, the safeguarding of these creatures is not merely a moral obligation but also a means to preserve the life stories that have been articulated through art and culture for centuries.

Just One More Thought Before We Close

Apply the scenario in which you had to speak with the future generations about the extinction of a particular breed because no one cared to save it. Such a scenario is simply out of the question.

Super rare breeds should not be given only a safekeeping status, but also a special risk category for the wealth of biological and cultural heritage they hold.

Before Petsfolio: Why Responsible Pet Ownership Matters.

Before talking about Petsfolio, it’s important to remember that conservation doesn’t succeed without responsible owners. Whether someone owns a rare breed or a common one:

• They must understand the breed’s needs
• They must avoid unethical breeders
• They should support awareness programs
• They should commit to proper training, nutrition, and healthcare

Responsible ownership is the foundation upon which the future of all breeds rests.

Petsfolio is a reliable online platform that specializes in pet care awareness, and it also promotes responsible pet ownership. Petsfolio contributes to creating a betterpet community by providing the right breed selection for pet parents, supporting ethical breeders, and giving useful pet-care guidance. The company aims to provide every single pet, whether rare or common, out of love, protection, and care that is their right.