Flowing locks, magnificent beards, fox-like faces and one dog with a very unusual way of attracting ducks. No, we are not describing the cast of a particularly strange movie.
They are all part of the canine world, and you can meet them at the 2026 Melbourne Dog Lovers Festival Breed Showcase.
Here are five extraordinary breeds to look out for this October, alongside loads of other rare and popular breeds.
1. Afghan Hound: The Supermodel of the Dog World
With flowing hair, an elegant silhouette and a famously dignified expression, the Afghan Hound certainly knows how to make an entrance.
But underneath that glamorous coat is an athletic hound built for speed and power. Their combination of strength, grace and unmistakable style has made the Afghan Hound one of the most recognisable breeds in the world.
They may look like they belong on a fashion runway, but there is serious athletic ability behind all that hair.
Meet them with the Afghan Hound Club of Victoria.
2. Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever: The Dog That Tricks Ducks
This breed might have one of the longest names in the dog world, but there is a very good reason for it.
The Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, often simply called a Toller, was developed in Canada as an agile working dog and strong swimmer. Its playful movement along the shoreline was used to attract curious waterfowl closer, a behaviour known as “tolling”, before the dog retrieved birds from land or water.
Tollers are intelligent, energetic and instantly recognisable by their rich red or orange coats, often finished with flashes of white.
Meet them with the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Club of Victoria.
3. Italian Spinone: The Bearded Italian
With shaggy eyebrows, a magnificent beard and an expression that somehow looks both serious and incredibly sweet, the Italian Spinone is hard to miss.
Behind that distinctive face is a strong and versatile gundog. The breed is hardy and adaptable, capable of working across different types of terrain, including water.
Their wiry coat, big frame and unmistakable moustache give them plenty of character, while their patient and affectionate nature makes them even more charming.
Meet them with Piedimonte Italian Spinoni.
4. Keeshond: The Fluffy Watchdog
Part fox, part cloud, the Keeshond has one of the fluffiest silhouettes in the Breed Showcase.
Their thick coat forms a dramatic ruff around the neck, while their pointed ears, curled tail and fox-like face give them an instantly recognisable appearance.
Underneath all that fluff is a compact, intelligent dog known for being adaptable, friendly and alert.
Meet them with the Keeshond Club of Victoria.
5. Sealyham Terrier: The Little Dog With a Big Personality
Short legs, a sturdy little body and one seriously impressive beard.
The Sealyham Terrier may be small, but there is nothing delicate about this distinctive breed. Originally developed as a working terrier, the Sealyham is active, confident and famously fearless, all packed into a compact frame.
Their white coat, long facial furnishings and bold expression give them a look unlike almost anything else you will meet at the Festival.
Meet them with Aimfor Sealyham Terriers.
Meet Your New Favourite Breed
From flowing Afghan coats and fluffy Keeshonds to bearded Italian Spinoni and clever Tollers, these five breeds are only the beginning.
Meet beautiful dogs, chat with responsible breeders and discover even more fascinating breeds at the Melbourne Dog Lovers Festival, happening Sat 17 & Sun 18 October 2026 at Melbourne Showgrounds. Your ticket also includes free entry to the Cat Lovers Festival happening next door. Tickets are limited. Fetch yours now.
