Dogs that are ugly: Top 10 ugly dog breeds — see ’em and love ’em!
Top 10 ugly dog breeds — see ’em and love ’em!
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These pooches might not be considered classic beauties but that’s precisely their charm.
Erica Loop
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. Which pups fit into this high-character category?
Check out these top 10 pooches that might not be considered classic beauties but that’s precisely their charm:
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 this breed is a playful companion and gentle with kids.
4. Komondor
Dreadlocks on a dog? Yes! This Hungarian livestock guard dog looks more like a mop head than a mutt. Calm and watchful, this breed is extremely protective of loved ones.
5. Bull Terrier
You can’t get much more distinctive than this 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. 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.
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.
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, this breed 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.
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50 Ugly Dogs That Are Still So Darn Cute
By Morgan Cutolo, RD.comUpdated: Jul. 26, 2021
For nearly 30 years, ugly dogs have vied for the crown in the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest.
Check out these top contenders!
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
The world’s ugliest dogs
Even ugly dogs can be cute, especially when they flash those puppy dog eyes and snuggle up next to you. So many people agree that ugly dogs are adorable that the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest has been held annually for almost 30 years. Owners from around the globe bring their pups to Petaluma, California, to celebrate each and every dog’s unique beauty. The dogs walk up and down the red carpet in front of judges, international media, celebrity hosts, and fans.
The contest promotes the love of all dogs and encourages people to adopt because many of the contestants came from shelters and puppy mills. Not every dog has to meet the kennel club’s pedigree standards to be a great addition to any home. Read on to take a look at some of the adorable contestants from the past few years.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Rico
Rico gives out a constant wink.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Jake
This enthusiastic pup knows how to smile for the camera.
If you like these ugly dogs, you’ll also want to check out these hilarious dog memes.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Lemmy
Look at that sweet face.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Rascal Deux
Look at her style. Rascal has appeared on America’s Got Talent and the cover of a magazine.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Tostito
That tongue is ready to give kisses all day long.
Here are the warning signs your pet may be overweight.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Gertrude
This little 1.8 kg chihuahua lives with 9 other rescue dogs.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Grendel
This Mastiff/American Staffordshire mix is the most gentle giant.
If you’re a dog owner, these hilarious dog cartoons will make you chuckle.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Fabio
This 13-year-old teacup chihuahua still looks like a puppy.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Josie
Josie doesn’t need any jewellery to make her one of the cutest ugly dogs.
Here are more awesome dog breeds you’ve never heard of.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
TeeTee
TeeTee is a Crestie Mix from Arizona with a great sense of humour, strong spirit, and a cute little tongue.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Rooby Roux
Rooby Roux is completely blind and has two seeing eye humans.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Himisaboo
That cute combover won the hearts of this pup’s parents.
Here are 11 warning signs your dog is suffering from heat stroke.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Miss Moogie
Moogie weighs only 2 kg but has a big heart.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Willie Wonka
Willie, an American Staffordshire Terrier mix, is only 7 months old but already has a following on Instagram, has met some pretty cool celebrities, and even made an appearance on TV.
Want a fur baby without all the fur? These dog breeds barely shed.
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Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Puka
Puka always has a big smile on her face.
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Will Bucquoy Photography/Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Zsa Zsa
Zsa Zsa’s adorable face and swaying tongue won him first place in 2018’s World’s Ugliest Dog Competition. Many of these dogs were left on the streets or abandoned, but now they have a loving home.
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Jeff Chiu/AP/Shutterstock
Martha
The year before Zsa Zsa took home the blue ribbon, Martha, a Neapolitan Mastiff, won first in the 2017 competition.
Find out the world’s largest dog breeds.
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Will Bucquoy Photography/Courtesy The Sonoma-Marin Fair
Mrs. Kravitz
Those pointy ears and happy tongue would make anyone fall in love with this pup.
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Monica M Davey/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock
Daisy
Daisy’s favourite place to be is half asleep in her mom’s arms.
Discover Canada’s most popular dog names.
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Monica M Davey/EPA/Shutterstock
Moe
Moe the pug loves being showed off to the crowd at the 2017 World’s Ugliest Dog Contest.
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Chase
Chase, a Chinese Crested Harke, came all the way from Wales to compete for the World’s Ugliest Dog. It was worth it because he placed third in the 2017 competition.
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AP/Shutterstock
Precious
This chihuahua got a few bonus points for sporting this adorable polka-dot outfit.
Check out more adorable pug pictures here!
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Peter Dasilva/EPA/Shutterstock
Sweepee Rambo
Sweepee Rambo swept the competition and took home first place in the 2016 World’s Ugliest Dog Contest.
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Peter Dasilva/EPA/Shutterstock
Smeagle
Smeagle sniffs out the competition.
These are the eight signs your dog needs affection.
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Peter Dasilva/EPA/Shutterstock
Icky
There is nothing icky about this adorable dog with the cutest fauxhawk.
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Stephen Chung/Lnp/Shutterstock
Mugly
On top of being known as one of the cutest ugly dogs around, Mugly is also a therapy dog.
If you’ve noticed that your own dog is acting a little weird, these could be the reasons behind their strange behaviour.
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Dan Callister/Shutterstock
Quasi Modo
This pit bull-Dutch shepherd mix was born with spinal problems, but that doesn’t stop him from being the happiest dog he can be.
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World’S Ugliest Dog/Shutterstock
Zoomer
Zoomer blocked out the competition with his big hair.
Having trouble naming your new pooch? Find out the most popular puppy names.
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Peter Dasilva/EPA/Shutterstock
Rue
Rue took home third place in the 2016 competition.
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World’S Ugliest Dog/Shutterstock
Reggie
Reggie has the sweetest eyes that get his owners to give him lots of treats.
Psst—this is why dogs spin around before they poop.
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World’S Ugliest Dog/Shutterstock
Isaboo
This mutt competed in 2015.
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World’S Ugliest Dog/Shutterstock
Frodo
Frodo is sticking his tongue out in hopes of getting some food
These are the most popular dog breeds in Canada!
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World’S Ugliest Dog/Shutterstock
Morris
Morris isn’t going to let anyone at the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest wipe the serious look off his face.
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World’S Ugliest Dog/Shutterstock
Cyndy Loo Whoo
Cyndy Loo Whoo would fit in great in a Dr. Seuss book.
Can you guess this dog’s breed based on one picture?
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World’S Ugliest Dog/Shutterstock
Bubbers
With a name like Bubbers how could you ever get mad at this little guy?
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World’S Ugliest Dog/Shutterstock
Blanquito
Blanquito’s unique skin and crazy hair make him a perfect fit among all of these ugly dogs.
These affectionate dog breeds love to cuddle!
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World’S Ugliest Dog/Shutterstock
Angus
We can’t get enough of that smile.
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Peter Dasilva/EPA/Shutterstock
Peanut
Peanut was the winner of the 2014 competition. His owner proudly shows her off to the crowd.
Check out the cutest dog breeds as puppies.
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Monica M Davey/EPA/Shutterstock
Sophie
Sophie is one of the many chihuahuas that competes in the ugly dog competition. They’re so tiny!
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Monica M Davey/EPA/Shutterstock
Mayzie Brown
Mayzie proudly walks across the stage at the 2013 competition. All of that fluff is sure to make her a top contender.
Discover the 13 breeds that make the best apartment dogs.
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Monica M Davey/EPA/Shutterstock
Walle
Walle is a Beagle Bassett Hound and Boxer Mix. He won the competition in 2013, it was probably because of that adorable smile.
These funny animal pictures are sure to put a smile on your face!
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Monica M Davey/EPA/Shutterstock
Boolah
Boolah is a little shy and snuggles up to his mom on stage.
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Monica M Davey/EPA/Shutterstock
Eleanor
This pup is so happy to be out and about with her dad that she doesn’t even care about winning.
Need inspiration for October 31st? Check out these hilarious Halloween costumes for dogs.
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Monica M Davey/EPA/Shutterstock
Elli Mae
Ellie Mae is a Chinese Crested and you will rarely see her with her tongue in her mouth.
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Monica M Davey/EPA/Shutterstock
Roo
Roo won the Pedigree Part of the 25th Anniversary World’s Ugliest Dog Contest.
Check out more adorable dog breeds that stay small.
Originally Published: July 26, 2021
Originally Published on Reader’s Digest
5 ugliest dog breeds in the world
Ratings
Content:
- 1. Chinese Crested
- 2. Mexican Hairless Dog
- 3. Shar Pei
- 4. Bedlington Terrier
- 5. Boo Alterrier
The dogs described below are very unusual in appearance.
They may not be ugly, but their appearance is very different from that of all other dogs. Some of them do not have wool, others have a folded skin, and others have unusual muzzles.
Despite their ridiculous appearance, these dogs are just as loyal, loving and charming as everyone else. 5 ugliest dog breeds in the world:
1. Chinese Crested
The dog was bred in China.
Life expectancy: 10-14 years.
Height: 23-33 cm.
Weight: 5-5.5 kg.
Colour: black, black and tan, blue, brown, grey, red, white, yellow.
Dogs are affectionate, gentle, active and playful.
The Chinese Crested Dog is the smallest of all hairless dog breeds. Fur may be absent on the body, but it is on the head, paws and tail. Their naked bodies are sensitive to cold and sun exposure and require protection in extreme temperatures.
However, sensitive skin does not make these dogs less active. They like to guard the house, their owners, their children and animals living in the house.
Crested dogs don’t need much extra exercise and are ideal for city living.
2. Mexican hairless dog
Origin: Central America.
Life expectancy: 15-20 years.
Height: 25-60 cm.
Weight: 7-18 kg.
Black, brown, tan, grey, brindle and red.
Dogs are very attentive, calm and quiet.
The Mexican Hairless Dog was originally called the Xoloitzcuintle. The first half of their name was a derivative word from the name of the Aztec god of lightning and the underworld, and the second meant the word “dog” in the Aztec language. The Aztecs believed that this animal accompanies the deceased to the afterlife and has healing powers, helping those with asthma, insomnia and rheumatism. Hairless dogs were claimed to ward off evil spirits and intruders. Despite all these positive qualities, they were sacrificed and even eaten. As a result, their number decreased so much that they almost completely disappeared. Only through the efforts of breeders and amateur dog breeders it was possible to revive the breed.
In 2010, the dog was declared a national treasure in Mexico.
Dogs of this breed are excellent friends and protectors. They need to walk and play a lot. The dog gets along well in the family and is very friendly, including to children.
3. Shar Pei
Origin: China.
Life expectancy: 9-11 years.
Height: 40-50 cm.
Weight: 20-35 kg.
Colour: red, black, blue, apricot, brown.
Dogs are affectionate, energetic, independent and loving.
Shar Pei first appeared in the Chinese province of Guangdong. The breed is distinguished by wrinkled, saggy skin. In general, in Chinese, “shar-pei” is translated as “sandpaper” or “sandpaper”. The dog was so named, probably because it really has a very thick skin, which is almost impossible to damage.
Shar Peis require almost no care and intensive training, they easily adapt to any conditions and perfectly protect the territory. Although the dog needs to walk a lot and regularly, he does not like to move a lot.
Shar-Peis cannot stand small children, so if you have them, it is better not to get this dog.
4. Bedlington Terrier
Origin: Great Britain.
Life expectancy: 12-14 years.
Height: 40-41 cm.
Weight: 8-10.5 kg.
Colour: blue, grey, sand.
Dogs are very affectionate, balanced, energetic and intelligent.
Bedlington Terriers were bred to hunt hares, foxes and badgers. The breed has a skin that is somewhat lagging behind the body with a combination of hard and soft wool. The wool covers the head and muzzle more, which is why Bedlingtons look more like sheep than dogs.
Bedlington Terriers get along well with children and other animals. They are easy to train and prepare for competitions and exhibitions. Their excellent sense of smell and hunting qualities make them good guards. Dogs require good grooming, but it’s not that complicated.
5. Bull Terrier
Origin: England.
Life expectancy: 11-14 years.
Height: 50-60 cm.
Weight: 20-35 kg.
Colour: white, fawn, black-white, black-brown, white-brown, tan-white, black-tan-white.
Dogs are smart, active and good protectors.
Bull Terriers have short, strong and powerful bodies, short hair, and the skin is quite close to the body. They are bold and impulsive. There are cases when they attacked other dogs and injured them. But with a good upbringing, they are obedient and faithful to the owner, they protect his house and family well.
Despite their bad reputation, bull terriers are very kind and patient with their owner’s children. But, in general, they are not very friendly.
Like representatives of other breeds, the above are very sensitive and gentle towards their owners. With a humane attitude towards themselves, they will always be obedient, sweet and devoted.
TOP 10 ugliest dog breeds
Banal truth: “a dog is a man’s best friend”. Who and when was the first to tame the wolf, making him a four-legged friend, is not exactly known.
What is known, however, is that this friendship began 15,000 years ago. Nevertheless, among our four-legged friends there are quite bizarre breeds.
Some breeds of dogs have features that may surprise or even disgust other people. However, for the owners of their dogs – the most beautiful and most beloved. In this article, we’re going to talk about 10 unusual dog breeds that often make lists of the ugliest.
Chinese Crested Dog
Chinese Crested is a hairless breed of dog, she has hair only on her head, tail and paws. This breed is of two types – hairless and fluffy. Hairless crested Chinese dog has smooth skin of different colors, and fluffy – a thin layer of wool all over the body.
This breed seems exotic and unusual. Their head resembles a tuft or feather, and their body resembles a monkey or a fox. The Chinese Crested requires special skin and coat care, as well as protection from the cold and sun.
Affenpinscher
Affenpinscher is a small dog breed belonging to the toy terrier group.
This breed was bred in Central Europe, it was used to catch mice and hunt rats. The dog is covered with very thick, rough hair of black or gray color, which forms a “beard” on the muzzle and “eyebrows” on the eyes. Affenpinschers have a short nose and large ears. Their appearance seems comical or disproportionate. These are very brave and smart, but at the same time wayward dogs. They love to play and interact with their owners.
Greyhound
Greyhound is one of the tallest dog breeds. This is a representative of a group of greyhounds, which was bred to hunt hares and foxes in Russia. She can reach very high speed. This breed has a long thin body, an elongated neck, a long nose and large eyes. Wool can have different lengths and colors.
Greyhound looks strange and clumsy because of its proportions. The dog’s head seems too small in relation to its body, and the paws look too long in relation to its size. Nevertheless, it is an elegant and noble breed of dog that has grace.
Xoloitzcuintli
Xoloitzcuintle was named after the god of the ancient Mesoamerican tribes, also known as Xolotl. This dog appeared in Mexico, several millennia ago.
Despite the fact that in ancient times the Xoloitzcuintli were considered the earthly representatives of the god Xolotl, the natives highly valued their meat and ate them as the main source of protein.
Among the representatives of this breed, two subspecies are distinguished: covered with wool and completely naked, like the Peruvian naked Inca orchid. Due to their natural genetic origin, dogs are distinguished by excellent health and are not susceptible to diseases that are often found in other breeds.
Due to the fact that the Xoloitzcuintle originated from a very warm and humid region, they should be dressed for walks, and in cold weather it is better not to take them out for a walk at all. Today, the Xoloitzcuintli are a national treasure in Mexico.
Peruvian Naked Inca Orchid
Peruvian naked Inca orchid is the most ancient breed with a poetic name.
The dog, whose homeland is in the valleys of the Andean Cordillera, has a strange appearance. Archaeologists claim that ancient cultures, even before the advent of the Incas, used these dogs in cult ceremonies.
There are two subspecies: bald, which have woolen “tassels” on the head, limbs and tip of the tail, and animals that are completely covered with hair. Among the natives of the Pacific equatorial lands, hairless dogs were pets, and those covered with wool were used for hunting.
Representatives of this breed are excellent companions, they are attached to their owners. Their distinctive feature is that they sweat all over their body. The Peruvian hairless dog, due to its lack of hair, does not tolerate extreme temperatures well.
Bull Terrier
Bull Terrier – This breed was bred in 1862 by combining the English Bulldog, White English Terrier and Dalmatian. The purpose of crossing is to get a perfectly white bull terrier. Before, until the beginning of the 20th century, colored bull terriers were not allowed for breeding.
This breed is characterized by high endurance, increased activity and good health. There is a widespread myth about the abnormal aggressiveness of these dogs, in fact, this aggressiveness manifests itself only in case of improper upbringing and lack of attention.
Catalburun
Catalburun known as the Turkish Pointer is still a little known breed and has not received official recognition. Currently, there are only about two hundred individuals of these dogs in the world. But, despite its rarity and imperfect appearance, this breed deserves attention, as it has unique qualities.
The homeland of the Catalburuns is the city of Tarsus. The name of the breed comes from the Turkish word “catalburun”, which means “forked nose”, which reflects the characteristic feature of the dog’s appearance.
Catalburuns have a unique nose structure – a forked lobe with a deep furrow, which makes them excellent hunting dogs due to their excellent sense of smell. Hunters in Turkey highly value these dogs and have been using them for hunting in the mountains since 6-7 months.
Catalburuns are excellent swimmers and are able to cross even wide mountain rivers with strong currents. Their high intelligence allows them to be used in mountain rescue operations, as well as working dogs in the police and customs. However, representatives of this breed are excellent companions and true friends.
Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier is named after the town of Bedlington, where it was bred in 1870 by crossing the Dandie Dinmont Terrier with the Otterhound and the Whippet. In the past, British miners valued Bedlingtons for their help in hunting rats, otters, foxes and badgers.
An interesting fact: the English gypsies used the Bedlingtons’ fearlessness, their excellent scent and high speed of movement for pickpocketing.
Bedlington is one of the most expensive and rare dog breeds, popular in the aristocratic circles of developed countries. These terriers are not adapted for outdoor life, but are hardy and have a moderate level of activity.
Neapolitan Mastiff
Mastino Napoletano, or Neapolitan Mastiff, is a descendant of the fighting dogs that fought in battles as part of the ancient Roman army and in ancient arenas for the entertainment of the public, fighting large wild animals. Nowadays, these hefty dogs are used as guard and guard dogs, although they do not show aggressiveness. These are affectionate and gentle animals, but at the same time extremely jealous, so they are not recommended to be kept in families with small children or other pets.
Due to its fighting qualities, the Neapolitan Mastiff was the favorite breed of Alexander the Great. Despite the fact that these dogs have been known since ancient times, the breed received official recognition only after the end of the Second World War.
Napoletano Mastiff has an impressive size (height up to 75 cm, weight up to 70 kg). However, they do well in apartment life due to their low activity levels.
Azawakh
Azawakh accompanied the nomadic peoples of the southeastern Sahara for hundreds of years, leading a semi-wild lifestyle.