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Brazilian mastiff - This type of dog was bred for hunting, but that's not its most surprising characteristic. The breed was used to catch dangerous animals such as jaguars, meaning these dogs are very protective of their owner and mistrustful of strangers.

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Mudi - Mudi is a breed which originates from Hungary. These dogs are very quick and have a very thick coat. Even though some are completely black, others have a mixture of gray fur which creates a marble effect.

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Bull terrier - The English bull terrier was bred in the 19th century as a fighting dog. It's egg-shaped head makes it look very intimidating, but this breed is actually quite timid and friendly. They make good family dogs.

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Lagotto romagnolo - The Italian Lagotto romagnolo, with its thick curly coat, was bred to hunt waterfowl, in particular ducks.

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New Guinea singing dog - You're not barking up the wrong tree if you think this dog's howl is worse than the hype. The New Guinea singing dog makes the strangest calls, which you'll only believe when you hear it!

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Otterhound - The Otterhound is an old British dog breed which was used to hunt otters. They have an acute sense of smell and long fur.

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Neapolitan mastiff - This Italian dog breed's main feature is plain for all to see. Behind the slobbery and wrinkled exterior is a sociable and friendly character.

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Affenpinscher - The Affenpinscher is a small dog that was originally bred to hunt rats. Though it may be one of the least strange looking dogs in this gallery, its appearance is often compared to Ewoks from 'Star Wars.'

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Thai ridgeback - This is a primitive breed from Thailand which was bred to hunt and also pull carts. They are unique for the ridge of forward-growing hair along their backs, and for being extremely difficult to train.

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Norwegian lundehund - "Lundehund" literally means "puffin dog," and this breed was used to steal eggs from these birds' nests. In addition to having six toes on each paw, these dogs are some of the most agile in the world.

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Griffon Bruxellois - Just like the Affenpinscher, these small pooches are also compared to Ewoks are were trained as ratters. They are intelligent dogs and make good pets.

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Shar-Pei - This wrinkly breed was originally bred as a guard and hunting dog, but today makes a great pet.

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Tibetan mastiff - This is an ancient breed of dog which is best known for its shaggy coat and thick fur around its head. Bred as a guard dog, the Tibetan mastiff has now become a popular show dog.

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Azawakh - Azawakhs come from the Sahara desert and are known for being tall and skinny with long legs. They are loyal and protective of their owners and their territory.

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Borzoi - This Russian-bred dog has a nose which make it look like an anteater. Originally designed to be a hunting dog, Borzois now make great pets.

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Mexican hairless dog - If you're looking for a cuddly dog that doesn't molt, then this breed is perfect for you! This hairless breed gives out a lot of body heat.

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Puli - It's a wonder that this dog can see anything through that carpet of fur! Though it may look thick, this breed is actually very intelligent and a popular choice in dog shows.

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Dandie dinmont terrier - This Scottish breed has a distinctive fuzz of hair on its head and was originally bred to hunt otters and badgers. Today, they make loyal pets.

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Bergamasco shepherd - This walking carpet is in fact an Italian dog breed which makes a great family pet.

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Bedlington terrier - This dog may look woolly, but owning one as a pet means you're far from being a sheep. It's distinctive ovine look is a popular choice in dog shows.

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Irish wolfhound - Irish wolfhounds are the famous gentle giants of the dog world. Formerly used as hunting dogs, these animals can grow up to two meters and are extremely friendly.

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Chinese crested dog - It's clear from its appearance that the Chinese crested dog was made to meet the demands of fashion, not functionality. The lap dog is a very attentive breed, though its strange appearance means it is not so popular nowadays.

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Peruvian Inca orchid - Often considered one of the most ugly dogs in the world, this breed has almost no hair at all and sometimes has white marks over its body. Sometimes they do grow a crest of fur on their head.

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Alaskan klee kai - It may look like a Husky puppy, but this dog stays this small even when fully grown! If you want a Husky puppy lookalike then this is the breed for you.

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Chow Chow -

As well as being one of the few dog breeds to have a purple tongue and lips, and the appearance of a lion, this animal also usually has a blue or gray nose.

See also: How dogs became man’s best friend

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