When we think about our favorite dogs—like the friendly Golden Retriever, the lively Beagle, or the affectionate American Pit Bull Terrier—it’s easy to forget that these beloved breeds have a rich ancestry. Just as with humans, these breeds have their roots and unique histories. Sadly, some dog breeds that were once common are now extinct. Their disappearance was often due to factors such as war, disease, and natural evolution. Here are ten fascinating extinct dog breeds we’d love to meet:
Talbot Hound
The Talbot Hound, in medieval tapestries, literature, and paintings, have a good reputation for their exceptional hunting skills. It is true that this dog breed has magnificent records back in the time. Yet, their records remain unclear whether these dogs were sighthounds, scent hounds, or quarry hounds. In fact, the term “Talbot” denoted not just a breed but a particular noble hound with a distinctive appearance. They are short in size and extremely strong. They have a a sleek white coat and a characteristic curled tail. Despite their origination took place in Normandy, they gained prominence in England. Unfortunately Talbot Hound disappeared in the late 18th century, but its legacy continues in breeds like the Beagle and Bloodhound.
St. John’s Water Dog
The St. John’s Water Dog is an ancestor of modern water retrievers such as the Newfoundland, Curly-Coated Retriever, and Labrador Retriever. It was a pivotal breed in the evolution of water retrievers. This breed resulted from a mix of local dogs and those introduced by Portuguese fishermen. British hunters, recognized the St. John’s Dog’s excellent water-retrieving capabilities. As a result, English imported them to England, where they contributed to the development of other retriever breeds. Despite their influence, the St. John’s Water Dog itself vanished due to natural evolution and breeding changes.
Fighting Dog of Cordoba

The Fighting Dog of Cordoba, also known as the Cordoba Fighting Dog or Perro de Pelea Cordobes, was a breed from Argentina. It was popular for for dog fighting. These dogs were valued for their strength, tenacity, and aggression in the fighting ring. However, the Argentinian government banned the practice in 1954 with the change in attitudes towards dog fighting overtime. Consequently, the breed’s population diminished. Finally the ban and the economic situation in the country led to its extinction.
Molossus
The Molossus was a powerful and ancient breed known for its formidable hunting skills. The Greeks and Romans revered this dog breed. Some theories suggest Alexander the Great brought these dogs from Asia to Greece. As they spread across regions, they gave rise to various breeds, including the Saint Bernard, Great Dane, and Bernese Mountain Dog. Though the Molossus itself is extinct, its lineage lives on in these modern breeds.
Salish Wool Dog
The Salish Wool Dog, a small, Spitz-like breed, was highly valued by the Salish Coast Native American tribes for its fur. These dogs were kept separate from other village dogs to preserve their distinctive white coat. The Salish people, skilled weavers, used the dogs’ fur to create ceremonial blankets. However, the Salish Wool Dog eventually disappeared with the advent of Hudson Bay trade blankets and the availability of sheep wool, coupled with the impacts of colonialism.
Hawaiian Poi Dog

The Hawaiian Poi Dog, a small dog with a potbelly and colorful coat, arrived in Hawaii with Polynesians over a thousand years ago. Known for their sweet nature and compatibility with children, these dogs were also used as a food source. The introduction of other breeds led to their extinction in the early 19th century due to interbreeding. A breeding program at the Honolulu Zoo in the 1970s sought to revive this Polynesian breed but did not succeed.
Alpine Mastiff
Dating back to 500 BC in Northern Europe, the Alpine Mastiff was one of the earliest giant-sized breeds. This breed, possibly a precursor to the English Mastiff, could reach over 39 inches at the shoulder and weigh up to 350 pounds. Over time, the Alpine Mastiff merged with other Molosser breeds and is now considered extinct in its pure form. The Saint Bernard is believed to be its closest modern relative.
Brazilian Tracker
The Brazilian Tracker, recognized by the Brazilian Kennel Club in 1967, went extinct just six years later. The breed, also known as the Rastreador Brasileiro, was known for its tracking abilities and resembled the American Coonhound in temperament. An outbreak of disease and excessive use of insecticides contributed to the breed’s decline. Efforts are underway to recreate the Brazilian Tracker through preservation breeding.
Argentine Polar Dog
Bred by the Argentine Army for use as sled dogs in Antarctica, the Argentine Polar Dog was a long-haired breed that went extinct in 1994. The Antarctic Treaty’s policies on exotic species led to the removal of all dogs from the continent. The breed’s isolation in Antarctica led to the loss of natural immunity to diseases, resulting in the deaths of most dogs when relocated to Patagonia.
Tesem
The Tesem was an ancient breed from Egypt, celebrated for its hunting prowess and loyalty. Depictions of the Tesem are found in Ancient Egyptian temples and tombs. The “Khufu dog,” discovered in the tomb of Pharaoh Khufu, is among the earliest known examples of the breed. Characterized by a wedge-shaped head, erect ears, and a sleek, muscular body, the Tesem is believed to have evolved into modern breeds such as the Saluki and Sloughi.
Highly Vulnerable Breeds Facing Extinction
Extinct dog breeds have almost taught dog lovers and breeders an unforgettable importance. Had they lived, they would have been in the companionship of their adorable owners.Despite efforts by breed preservationists, many dog breeds are still at risk of extinction. These efforts ensure that some breeds that might have disappeared in the past remain today’s cherished companions. However, numerous breeds continue to face significant threats. To learn more about how you can help vulnerable dogs, explore resources on volunteering, fostering, and advocating for banned dog breeds in and around the world.