Those ears, that hair, the all-over “I’m so ugly I’m cute” attitude! Ugly dog breeds are often so odd looking that they’re absolutely, irresistibly adorable. While they might not win any beauty contests, these breeds are all-out attention grabbers with style and that certain something.
The whole world loves ugly dogs. There’s even a long-running annual contest to pick the world’s ugliest dog. Sometimes certain traits just come together to breed ugly dogs, but their unique features are also why we love them. So, which pups fit into the high-character category of ugly dog breeds? Check out these top 10 pooches that might not be considered classic beauties, but that’s precisely their charm.
10 ugly dog breeds that are impossible not to love
1. Papillon
Described as athletic and agile by the American Kennel Club (AKC), the papillon is a toy dog known for its flap-away butterfly ears. Yes, this breed’s petite features are high on the cuteness scale. But, those Dumbo-esque ears also offer a bit of adorable oddity.
2. Bulldog
With that trademark squished face, jiggling jowls and wrinkles, the bulldog is a drooling mess of sweetness. The Bulldog Club of America notes that this breed’s temperament veers from courageous to dignified. Contrary to how they look, they’re not at all aggressive.
3. Chinese Crested
You can call him interesting or call him different. But any way you look at the Chinese crested, he’s just kind of ugly. That bare skin and spotted look, the hair (oh, the hair!) and those “socks” made of fur make this little lady an almost-alien oddball. That said, these aren’t fierce space invaders. The AKC notes these ugly breed dogs are still playful companions and gentle with kids.
4. Komondor
Rug tassels on a dog? Yes! This Hungarian livestock guard dog looks more like a mop head than a mutt. What they lack in hairstyle, they make up for by being loyal and loving. Calm and watchful, this breed is extremely protective of loved ones.
5. Bull Terrier
You can’t get much more distinctive than this ugly dog breed (especially if you’ve ever watched a Target commercial). With its egg-shaped head and uber-long snout, this pup has character coming out of its pointy, cat-like ears! Fun-loving and friendly, bull terriers make playful pets.
6. Neapolitan Mastiff
This breed has more wrinkles than your 96-year-old grandpa. A humongous head, dripping lips and sags of skin make this canine look a bit lazy and crazy. But with that said, the crazy stops there. This dog’s temperament is typically calm, steady and loyal.
7. Shar-pei
The Chinese Shar-pei is running neck and neck (or jowl and jowl) with the Neapolitan mastiff for the title of world’s wrinkliest dog. Along with the folds, sunken eyes and teeny tiny ears, this pup also has a distinctive blue-black tongue. It’s a recipe that breeds ugly dogs, but they’re loyal as well. While this breed may keep a watchful eye on the family, they’re traditionally aloof and somewhat reserved.
8. Standard Schnauzer
This breed, with that billy goat’s gruff beard going on, has a seemingly sad face. But the schnauzer is sociable and quite an affectionate little love muffin. They’re the perfect companion for fans of Disney’s “Lady In The Tramp.” Plus, who can resist those bushy eyebrows?
9. Chihuahua
Don’t call this bouncy little breed an overgrown rat! Whether you’re talking short- or long-haired, the Chihuahua’s oversize ears and teeny frame make it a “purse dog” favorite. The small stature is often balanced by this pup’s major attitude. Known for their sense of self-importance, this is a confident breed — alert, energetic and big on self-reliance. No wonder they’re such popular dogs!
10. Whippet
Graceful? Yes! Lean? Sure! The whippet has a slim, sleek style that looks to some more like an underfed supermodel than a peppy pup. Along with the trim shape, the whippet is known as the fastest domesticated animal in the world by weight. According to the AKC, these ugly breed dogs clocks in at up to 35 mph!
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so not all ugly dog breeds are considered ugly — or even homely — in the eyes of their pet parents.
