Welcome to a somewhat unusual, but quite interesting topic – «ugly» dog breeds.
Before we begin, let’s be clear: beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
What might seem quirky or «ugly» to some may be charming and endearing to others.
The dogs we’ll talk about in this article may not be the traditional beauties of the canine kingdom, but they do possess other traits that make them special – unique looks, extraordinary personalities, and fascinating stories.
So let’s dive into the world of these funky looking dog breeds and celebrate their uniqueness!
11 «ugly» dog breeds at a glance
1. Mexican Hairless Dog
The Mexican Hairless Dog, also known as the Xoloitzcuintle or Xolo, is an ancient and rare breed of dog.
Characteristic is its nudity, it has practically no fur, except maybe a few hairs on the crown of the head and at the end of the tail.
Its skin is robust and can be a variety of colors.
The Xolo is known for its loyalty, intelligence and even-tempered character, which makes it an excellent companion.
2. Chinese Crested Dog
The Chinese crested dog has also been publicly awarded the title of “the ugliest dog breed in the world” several times.
The hairstyle fits! The «ugly» dog breed has a real storm hairstyle. The fur is only on the head. There is little or no fur on the rest of the body.
Those who are not guided by looks will get a loyal and people-oriented family dog with the Chinese Crested Dog.
3. Shar Pei
Another «ugly» dog breed from China is the Shar Pei.
The dogs are really punished with many optical characteristics, which do not necessarily correspond to the common ideals of beauty.
The Shar Pei can be recognized primarily by their large head, blue tongue and clearly visible skin folds. It seems as if the dog breed has too much skin for its body.
The Shar Pei is a lovable dog with a great personality. He is considered devoted, affectionate, reserved and loving and cuts a particularly good figure as a guard dog.
4. Bull Terrier
The (English) Bull Terrier is also considered to be one of the ugliest dog breeds in the world.
For the lovers of the breed, the egg-shaped head looks endearing and charming.
It contains parts of the Bulldog, the Dalmatian and the White English Terrier. He is considered to be particularly protective, stubborn and extremely active.
5. Affenpinscher
For many, the little fur balls are anything but cute. They tend to be perceived as ugly, bulky, disheveled and unkempt.
Affenpinschers always look like it’s been ages since they last went to the hairdresser.
The fur that sticks out on all sides and the overgrown eyebrows characterize the «mustached devil».
Luckily, looks aren’t everything. The Affenpinscher convinces with its inner values. For example, the little heartbreakers are very affectionate, clever and ambitious.
6. Pug
The pug is not exactly one of the beauty kings in the animal kingdom.
Even if the dogs themselves are very popular, the pug is one of the ugly dog breeds for many.
The dog breed’s head always seems to be too big for its body. With the shape of the neck and nose in connection with the wrinkled face, the pug doesn’t even have to compete in beauty contests.
But his looks aren’t the only criticism. For many dog lovers, the pug is simply a torture breed.
Health problems such as shortness of breath are inevitable with this dog breed.
7. Bedlington Terriers
The Bedlington Terrier is also not exactly a feast for the eyes. The main reason for this is his “bad” hairstyle.
This curly head, which is one of the ugly dog breeds, primarily attracts some astonished looks due to its wispy fur in combination with its «failed» haircut.
However, its inside is beautiful. They are considered to be very peaceful and affectionate. They are born companion and family dogs.
8. Bloodhound
The Bloodhound also falls into the ugly dog breeds category. The drooping face and drool threads are characteristic of the dog.
At first glance, the Bloodhound always seems a bit exhausted and bored. But appearance is deceptive!
Its nose makes the «Bloodhound» one of the best sniffers in the world. It is indispensable for the police in particular.
9. Chihuahua
Even the popular Chihuahua from Mexico does not necessarily correspond to the usual ideals of beauty.
Many people see him more like a cat or a purse dog. The big head with the huge eyes and ears doesn’t make things any better.
But that doesn’t do the tiny one justice. Despite his small size, he has a big personality and is known for his bold and lively temperament.
Its fur can be long or short and comes in a variety of colors. The Chihuahua is intelligent, affectionate and lively.
10. Puli
The Puli, a dog breed from Hungary, isn’t exactly gifted with beauty either. Many people wonder if there is even a dog among these countless dreadlocks.
Its eye-catching appearance makes the Puli unique among dogs. You really have to hold back your laughter when you see it.
But don’t let the wild look fool you! The Puli is considered to be extremely intelligent, robust and independent and is one of the livestock guard dog breeds.
11. Komondor
The Komondor shares a fate similar to that of the Puli. This dog breed is also more reminiscent of a mop than a dog.
The Komodor doesn’t do well in interrogations. He is one of the ugliest dog breeds in the world. His dreadlocks often appear very matted and unkempt.
But many owners see the advantages of the Komondor precisely in these corners and edges. They would rather have a dog with character than a perfect dog.