9. Maltese
The term ‘Maltese dog’ has a rich history, referring not only to an ancient Italian breed of small, snow-white dogs with a long lineage, but also to a modern toy breed closely related to the Bichon, Bolognese, and Havanese breeds.
This modern breed, also known for its white coat and diminutive size, shares a genetic connection to its historical counterpart, which was often associated with the picturesque island of Malta.
10. Corgi
Hailing from Wales, the Welsh Corgi is a compact herding dog with a rich history.
The name ‘corgi’ is derived from the Welsh language, with ‘cor’ meaning ‘dwarf’ and ‘ci’ meaning ‘dog’, aptly describing this breed’s stature.
There are two distinct breeds: the Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi, each with unique physical characteristics that set them apart from one another, despite sharing a common heritage.