Dogs possess a unique kind of beauty that is hard to resist. Their wagging tails, innocent eyes, and warm fur make them beloved companion that brings joy and love into our lives. However, despite their lovable nature, some dogs can be considered unattractive due to their unconventional looks.
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This list of the top 10 ugly dogs may surprise you, and you might find yourself rethinking the idea that all dogs are beautiful. Nevertheless, these dogs still deserve to be loved and appreciated for who they are.
In fact, their undeniable charisma and charm can leave a lasting impression on those who give them a chance. As a dog lover, it’s our duty to love and care for all dogs, regardless of their appearance. So if you’re ready to open your heart to these unique creatures, get prepared to fall in love with their particular kind of beauty.
Why Are Some Dogs Ugly?
Dogs are truly fascinating creatures, with their unique qualities and behaviour that make them stand out amongst other species. However, when it comes to looks, some breeds fall into the category of being considered “ugly.”
Despite this, it’s important to note that beauty is subjective, and what one person may find unattractive, another might see as endearing. With that said, it’s still interesting to study and understand the physical traits that might make a dog appear less conventionally attractive, such as being hairless, barrel-bodied, or pop-eyed.
Regardless of their appearance, these dogs are still beloved by their owners and possess the same unwavering devotion as any other breed. So, let’s take a closer look at some of the breeds that qualify as some of the top “ugly” dogs, and appreciate the unique charm that each one brings to the table.
A List Of Top 10 Ugly Dogs On Earth
While a dog’s appearance can give us clues about its physical strength and perceived danger, it is important to remember that looks can be deceiving. Many larger dogs considered unattractive can still possess wonderful qualities such as loyalty, love, and playfulness. That being said, we have compiled a list of the ten most unattractive dog breeds.
#1 The Chinese Crested
The top ten list of unattractive canines places the Chinese crested at the top spot, renowned for their lack of beauty. They have consistently claimed this title for the past three decades.
These dogs possess sharp teeth and are prone to early tooth loss. Occasionally, their teeth may crowd or grow in unusual directions, resulting in a disturbing smile.
Chinese crested dogs come in two variations: completely hairless (known as the hairless variety) and minimal hair (known as the powderpuff variety).
Hairless crested pups have varying amounts of fur, primarily on their four paws, the back of their tail, and a crest on their skull. They possess a single layer of hair that grows on their head and extremities, giving them a peculiar and unattractive naked appearance. On the other hand, powderpuff crested dogs have a double coat of long, fine, and smooth hair.
Despite their unappealing physical attributes, Chinese crested dogs are affectionate and playful companions. They are lively and alert, standing at a height of 11 to 13 inches and weighing around 7-12 pounds (4-5 kg). Their lifespan ranges from 13 to 18 years. The most common health issues they face involve their eyes, including lens luxation, glaucoma, and PRA.
Moreover, they are lap dogs that require less exercise compared to many other breeds, making them easily manageable in terms of size as pets. This quality makes them excellent companions.
They are friendly and sociable, enjoying spending time with their owners. However, for many people, it may be challenging to find these peculiar-looking dogs adorable.
Therefore, despite being labelled as the ugliest dogs, the Chinese crested should be cherished and cared for due to their lovable nature.
#2 Chihuahua
Chihuahuas, the tiniest breed of dogs, are characterized by their apple-shaped heads and erect ears, which many individuals find unattractive. Additionally, their large, round bug eyes contribute to a creepy appearance that puts off many people.
Typically weighing between 2 and 6 pounds and standing at a height of 6 to 9 inches, chihuahuas are often disliked by people due to their small size, which necessitates frequent grooming. Bathing them is not as regular as with larger dogs because of their size. They generally need to be brushed a few times a week and bathed every few months.
Consequently, people shy away from chihuahuas because they consider them unappealing and high-maintenance.
In fact, the title of the world’s ugliest dog in the 2016 contest was awarded to a 17-year-old chihuahua with legs curled like a frog. In 2022, another 17-year-old chihuahua mix from Arizona, named Mr Happy Face, claimed the same unflattering title.
Furthermore, chihuahuas exhibit variations in their appearance, primarily due to their two main coat types:
Smooth Coat: These chihuahuas have shiny fur that hugs their bodies closely, with longer, thicker hair around the neck.
Long Coat: These chihuahuas possess softer fur that is flat and slightly curly, featuring a fringe of hair around the ears and a plumed tail. The long-haired variety also has a rough patch of hair on the neck and longer hair on their feet and legs, often referred to as “pants.” These are traits that many people find unattractive.
Due to their unsettling appearance, chihuahuas may not be the best choice for families with very young children, as their appearance can be perceived as creepy and potentially scare toddlers.
#3 Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher, a breed originating from Germany and tracing its roots back to the seventeenth century, belongs to the terrier family. Interestingly, it is sometimes referred to as a “monkey terrier” because the German word “affe” means monkey. As a result, individuals who have an aversion to monkeys may find the Affenpinscher unattractive and unappealing.
Furthermore, Affenpinschers are exceptionally small dogs. They typically have a height of around 9 to 12 inches at the withers (23-30 cm) and weigh approximately 7 to 13 pounds (3-6 kg).
If you’re wondering what makes these dogs considered ugly, the answer lies in their facial appearance. The petite face of an Affenpinscher bears a striking resemblance to that of a simian, a monkey breed.
The coat of these diminutive dogs also contributes to their perceived ugliness. They possess rough and coarse fur that covers their entire body. The fur is shorter and less dense on their hindquarters and back, while it tends to be shaggier on their head and shoulders.
With their bulging eyes and blunt snouts, combined with their unruly fur, Affenpinschers have an appearance that many find displeasing.
Given their rough and untamed fur, Affenpinschers require a significant amount of care. These tiny dogs need protection from heat and regular grooming to soften their fur to some extent.
#4 American Pitbull
American Pitbulls are a medium-sized breed known for their solid and muscular physique. On average, they stand around 18-21 inches (45-53 cm) tall and weigh approximately 35-60 lbs (16-27 kg). These dogs have notably large heads and massive jaws, boasting a bite strength of 235 pounds per square inch.
With their short fur coats and well-defined muscles, American Pitbulls possess distinct physical characteristics. They have round-shaped eyes, small ears, and long, pointed teeth that contribute to their intimidating appearance.
When fully grown, these dogs can reach weights of up to 85 pounds, representing a compact and robust package of pure muscle. Managing their behaviour can become challenging once they reach maturity.
Unfortunately, Pitbulls have gained a negative reputation, often labelled as “vicious, unpredictable, and violent.” Failing to properly train a Pitbull can pose a risk of injury to both the owner and others who come into contact with the dog.
If left untrained and undisciplined, a Pitbull can become a stubborn bully, using its size and strength to assert dominance. Their aggressive tendencies, coupled with their powerful physique, require careful handling.
A survey conducted on Pitbulls yielded the following conclusions:
- 68% of the responses associated them with unpredictability, violence, and danger.
- 57% of the responses focused on their intimidating and scary physical appearance.
- 55% of the responses linked them to being status symbols for gangs and individuals prone to violence.
- 46% of the responses highlighted their vulnerability to abuse and cruelty inflicted upon them.
#5 The Puli
The Puli, originating from Hungary, is a small to medium-sized breed that is often chosen as a family companion and was historically employed to guard livestock herds.
These compact dogs are recognized for their distinctive long, corded coats. The appearance of their coat can be likened to dreadlocks, which may not appeal to everyone. While they possess an energetic and lively nature, their fur resembles that of a mop.
However, it is important to note that the coats of Pulis can vary significantly among individuals. Some may have thinner and flatter cords, while others might have thicker or more rounded ones, depending on the texture. Most commonly, Pulis are black in colour or exhibit varying shades of black.
In terms of size, Pulis are relatively small, standing at around 16.5 to 17 inches at the withers. However, due to their voluminous mop-like fur, they can give the illusion of being much larger. They typically weigh approximately 23-25 pounds.
Similar to the Affenpinscher, Pulis requires a considerable amount of care and attention. This is one reason why some individuals are hesitant to adopt these dogs, as they perceive them as unattractive and find their fur too demanding to handle.
#6 Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)
The Xoloitzcuintli, also known as the Mexican Hairless or Xolo, belongs to the category of hairless dog breeds and is widely considered one of the least attractive breeds on the planet.
Within this breed, there are standard, intermediate, and miniature sizes. Their weights can range from 10 to 55 pounds (approximately 5 to 23 kg), while their heights vary from 9 to 26 inches (around 23 to 67 cm).
The Xoloitzcuintli dogs share similarities in appearance with the Pharaoh Hound. They possess sleek bodies adorned with wrinkles, which adds to their perceived unattractiveness. Furthermore, they feature long necks, large bat-like ears, and almond-shaped eyes.
What sets this breed apart is the minimal amount of hair they have limited to their heads only. Picture a hairless dog with a sleek physique, where the only hair present is on its head. It’s quite unsettling, isn’t it?
Due to their dark textured skin and hairless bodies, with hair solely on their heads, many people find them exceptionally unappealing.
#7 Borzoi
The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Hunting Sighthound, is a hunting dog originating from Russia, characterized by its elongated face and long legs.
Borzoi dogs emerged in Russia during the 1600s and were highly favoured by the Russian aristocracy for many centuries. They are the result of crossbreeding between the Arabian Greyhound and various thick-coated Russian breeds.
One distinctive feature of Borzois is their remarkably long faces. Many people liken their snouts to that of horses, which contributes to their perceived unattractiveness.
There’s no denying that Borzois have a rather peculiar appearance. They possess a slender body, deep chest, and tucked abdomen, all of which add to their somewhat repulsive image.
Their lean bodies are covered in a coat of fine, shaggy hair. Despite efforts, their fur often appears dishevelled and unkempt. Furthermore, their coat requires significant maintenance and daily grooming to keep them in order.
In terms of size, Borzois stand approximately 28 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh around 75 to 105 pounds. Consequently, one of the drawbacks of owning a Borzoi is its substantial size.
Borzoi dogs require ample space, which can be a disadvantage as not everyone has the necessary room to accommodate them.
#8 Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff, a breed originating from Italy, is known for its large and formidable presence, making it an effective guardian for you and your family, as few would dare to harm you in the presence of such a powerful dog.
Neapolitan Mastiff dogs typically weigh around 110 to 150 pounds (approximately 50 to 70 kg) and have a height at the withers of about 60 to 75 cm (around 24 to 30 inches). Interestingly, their body length is approximately 15 per cent greater than their height.
In 2017, a Neapolitan Mastiff named Martha gained recognition by winning the World’s Ugliest Dog contest in California. The primary factor that earned her this title was her large head with multiple folds.
Furthermore, Neapolitan Mastiffs possess loose skin with numerous folds and dewlaps, along with permanently wrinkled heads and front feet. Their head structure and body shape contribute to their intimidating and unattractive appearance.
While Neapolitan Mastiffs are protective and make good family companions, it’s important to note that they shed and drool excessively. Additionally, they have sensitive skin that requires protection from heat due to their excessive wrinkling and loose skin.
#9 Pug
Pugs are a small breed of dogs that possess a distinctive and easily recognizable appearance. Their notable feature is their squished and wrinkled heads.
In terms of size, pugs typically weigh around 14 to 18 pounds and have a short stature, reaching a maximum height of 10 to 13 inches. Their compact height may contribute to their perceived unattractiveness. However, despite their less favourable physical traits, pugs have a relatively long lifespan, ranging from 13 to 15 years.
The bodies of pugs are relatively small, but it’s their large, bulging eyes that often draw attention and can appear somewhat intimidating. Combined with their short and chubby necks, these features may deter some individuals.
It’s worth noting that the unattractive appearance of pugs is a result of human breeding and intentional deformities. They suffer from a condition known as brachycephaly, characterized by a small head, a short muzzle, and an altered skull shape. This condition compresses and distorts their natural breathing passages and other soft tissues within their deformed skull.
Despite their unappealing physical characteristics, pugs manage to captivate their owners with their endearing and adorable nature. Their fine, glossy coats, which come in various colours, add to their charm. Additionally, pugs are known for their sociability and gentle temperament, making them perfect companions.
#10 Whippets
This particular breed possesses a diminutive head with a pointed snout, which contributes to its unattractive appearance. Often, the head appears disproportionately small in relation to the rest of the body, creating a distinct profile.
Whippets are medium-sized dogs, typically measuring around 18 to 20 inches in height, and they have long, slender legs that add to their less appealing look. They have relatively lightweight, ranging from approximately 20 to 42 pounds.
As a result, whippets have a compact and lean body structure. They are characterized by large, rose-shaped ears with a fold, even when alert. Paired with their prominent and dark eyes, these features give them a somewhat edgy appearance.
Some individuals appreciate the calm nature of whippets, as they tend to be less prone to barking and are considered better companions than guard dogs. Their lean bodies make them well-suited for agility competitions, as their muscular legs enable them to sprint at remarkable speeds.
However, in terms of physical appearance, whippets lack bulk in the rest of their body. As a result, they may appear bony, which many find unattractive. Their slender and delicate nature also makes them less ideal for cuddling.
FAQs
What is the prettiest dog?
The Afghan Hound, for instance, boasts an elegant coat and regal appearance that is hard to beat. Similarly, the Siberian Husky’s piercing blue eyes and fluffy coat make it a top contender in the looks department. Another striking breed is the Weimaraner, with its sleek grey coat and unique features.
What is the number 1 naughtiest dog?
Japanese Spitz
Who is the very handsome dog?
Siberian Husky
The Final Word on Top 10 Ugly Dogs
- The Chinese crested dogs possess a single layer of hair that primarily grows on their head and extremities, resulting in a hairless appearance that may be perceived as peculiar and unattractive by many individuals.
- In 2022, a 17-year-old chihuahua mix named Mr Happy Face from Arizona was crowned the world’s ugliest dog, highlighting the subjective nature of beauty and the unique qualities that can make a dog stand out.
- American Pitbulls are characterized by their muscular structure and short coat. They have round-shaped eyes, small ears, and long, pointy teeth, which collectively contribute to a frightening appearance that can be unsettling to some.
- Borzoi dogs have distinctively long faces, often drawing comparisons to horses due to their elongated and slender snouts. This elongated facial feature, while characteristic of the breed, may be considered unappealing to many people.
Although they may not be the most visually appealing dogs, the breeds mentioned in this article are truly deserving of our love and affection. It’s easy to overlook a dog’s personality and loyalty when we’re preoccupied with outward appearances, but these dogs have so much more to offer than their looks would suggest.
These breeds are known for being incredibly loving and protective, and they make excellent furry companions. By disregarding their unconventional features and embracing them for who they are, we can experience all the amazing qualities that these dogs possess.
Reference:
- https://pethelpful.com/dogs/Top-10-Ugliest-Dog-Breeds
- https://www.purewow.com/family/naughtiest-dog-breeds
- https://petkeen.com/most-beautiful-dog-breeds/
A motivated philosophy graduate and student of wildlife conservation with a deep interest in human-wildlife relationships, including wildlife communication, environmental education, and conservation anthropology. Offers strong interpersonal, research, writing, and creativity skills.
