Welcome to the top 10 ugly dogs.
It is undeniable that all dogs are beautiful creatures and deserve to be adored and taken care of. Being a dog lover, you might think there’s no such term as an ‘ugly’ dog.
Although, after reading this list of the top 10 ugly dogs, you might change your mind.
There are some dogs that might make you second-guess your loving sentiments. It definitely doesn’t mean that they should not be loved or taken care of. In fact they might be even more loveable due to their unfavorable appearance, and they have a special place in many people’s hearts.
It is well-known that beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. Therefore, they might not look beautiful or appealing to you but may be someone else’s beloved animals.
Such ugly dog breeds are rarer than the beauties we usually see and adore. We are here to answer your queries if you’re curious about the top 10 ugly dogs and why they appear unattractive.
So, let’s uncover the top 10 ugly dogs!
Why Are Some Dogs Ugly?
Dogs are a fascinating species on Earth. Their unique style of love, devotion, and behavior that helps them survive and to be loved in this evolving world, are all very exciting to study.
However, some breeds qualify in this list of the top 10 ugly dogs because they may be hairless, squashed in the face, have barrel bodies or be pop-eyed. Some might even possess all of the above!
You might disagree with any breed listed here because, as we mentioned earlier, beauty lies in the eye of the beholder. It’s all about perspective!
So, buckle up and keep reading to know why some of the devoted, loyal, and obedient canines in our list of 10 of the ugliest breeds of dogs may be considered unattractive.
A List Of Top 10 Ugly Dogs On Earth
Ugliness in larger dogs is usually an indicator of the dog’s strength and its danger. But a dog’s appearance has never hindered them from being loyal, loving, adored, obedient, and playful. Here are our picks for the ten most unattractive dog breeds.
#1 The Chinese Crested
Among the top ten unattractive dog breeds, the Chinese crested takes the first spot, renowned for their distinctive appearance that has consistently earned them this title over the past three decades.
Chinese cresteds often exhibit pointed teeth and tend to experience early tooth loss. Occasionally, their teeth become overcrowded or grow in a way that gives them a somewhat eerie smile.
Chinese Crested species come in two varieties:
- Utterly devoid of hair (the hairless)
- Minimal hair (the powderpuff)
The hairless crested pups have varying amounts of fur, depending on how intensely the gene presents itself, with generally have fur around all four paws, the back of the tail, and the crest on the skull.
They have one layer of hair which grows on their head and extremities rather than their body, which gives them a naked look that many individuals may find odd and ugly. However, the powderpuff crested variant features a double coat of long fine hair that is very smooth and silky to the touch.
Despite the above-mentioned ugly features, the Chinese crested dog is an affectionate and playful companion. They are a lively and alert dog breed standing between 11 and 13 inches in height and weighing about 7-12 pounds (4-5 kg).
Moreover, they have a lifespan of 13 to 18 years. The most common health problems they face are eye issues such as lens luxation, glaucoma, and PRA.
Furthermore, being lap dogs requiring less exercise than many breeds, their size is perfectly manageable when kept as pets, making them excellent companions.
They are friendly, social dogs and love to spend time with their owners, but it would be hard for many individuals to find these odd-looking dogs adorable.
Therefore, despite being labeled as the ugliest dog, the Chinese Crested deserves to be loved and cared for due to its adorable nature.
#2 Chihuahua
Chihuahuas, known as the tiniest dog breed, are distinguished by their apple-shaped heads or dome-like skulls and erect ears, features that some individuals find less attractive. Their notably large, round eyes can give them a somewhat unsettling appearance in the eyes of many.
These diminutive dogs typically weigh between 2 to 6 pounds and stand around 6 to 9 inches in height. The grooming needs of smaller dogs like Chihuahuas can deter some potential pet owners, as they don’t require frequent baths due to their size but do need regular brushing, often a couple of times a week.
Interestingly, Chihuahuas have made headlines in the “world’s ugliest dog” contests. In 2016, a 17-year-old Chihuahua with legs curled like a frog claimed the title, and in 2022, another 17-year-old Chihuahua mix named Mr. Happy Face was crowned the world’s ugliest dog.
Furthermore, Chihuahuas exhibit variation in their appearance, primarily in their coat types:
- Smooth Coat: These Chihuahuas have sleek, close-fitting fur, with thicker and longer hair around the neck.
- Long Coat: Long-haired Chihuahuas sport softer, slightly curly fur, often with fringe-like hair on their ears and a plumed tail. They also have a patch of longer hair on their neck and “pants” on their feet and legs, characteristics that some may find less appealing.
It’s worth noting that Chihuahuas may not be the ideal choice for families with very young children, as their appearance can be seen as unusual and potentially frightening to toddlers.
#3 Affenpinscher
The Affenpinscher breed originates from Germany and can be traced back to the 17th century. It falls into the category of terrier-like dogs.
Interestingly, the Affenpinscher is sometimes referred to as the ‘monkey terrier,’ owing to the German word ‘affe,’ which means monkey. Consequently, individuals with an aversion to monkeys may not find the Affenpinscher particularly appealing.
Furthermore, Affenpinschers are quite diminutive in size, typically standing between 9 to 12 inches tall at the withers (23 – 30 cm) and weighing approximately 7 to 13 pounds (3-6 kg).
The distinctive feature that contributes to their unattractive appearance is their facial structure. The visage of an Affenpinscher bears a striking resemblance to that of a simian, a type of monkey.
Their hair also plays a significant role in their unattractive appearance. They possess a coarse and unruly coat that covers most of their bodies, with a shorter coat on their hindquarters and back, and a shaggier one on their head and shoulders.
With their bulging eyes, stubby muzzles, and untamed fur, Affenpinschers don’t score high in the looks department.
These little dogs require meticulous grooming due to their rugged and messy fur. Protecting them from excessive heat and regular grooming sessions can help soften their coarse fur to some extent.
#4 American Pitbull
American Pitbulls are medium-sized short-haired dogs of solid build whose average height is around 18 – 21 inches (45 – 53 cm) and weigh about 35 – 60 lbs (16 – 27 kg). These dogs have huge, ugly heads and gigantic jaws with a bite strength of 235 pounds per square inch.
They have short fur coats and muscular structures. Their eyes are round shaped, their ears small, and they have long pointy teeth that give off a terrifying appearance.
These dogs can weigh as heavy as 85 pounds when full-grown and are a compact, robust package of pure muscle. They can be difficult to keep under control once they are fully matured.
Pitbulls have a bad reputation and are named “vicious, unpredictable, and violent.” Not training your pitbull can result in risking injury to yourself or other persons interacting with your pet.
After all, a pitbull allowed to run wild without rules can become a stubborn bully that uses his bulk to push his way around. Typically, they are aggressive, have a powerful physique, and must be treated carefully.
In a survey regarding Pitbulls, the following conclusions were drawn:
- 68% of the responses related to unpredictability, violence, and danger.
- 57% of the responses were related to the physical appearance as scary or intimidating.
- 55% of the responses were related to being status symbols for gangs and other violent individuals.
- 46% of the responses were related to being victims of abuse and animal cruelty.
#5 The Puli
The Puli is a small, medium-sized family companion breed of dog that originated in Hungary and mainly guarded herds of livestock.
These tiny breeds are known for their long corded coats. Their coat resembles dreadlocks, which some people are not huge fans of. They are energetic and lively, but their fur coating is more like a mop.
However, their coats can vary greatly depending on the individual. Some might have thinner and flat cords, while others may have thicker or round ones, depending on their texture. Most are black in color, or varying shades of black at least.
Besides, pulis are small and stand about 16.5 inches to 17 inches at the withers. However, due to their mop-like fur, they appear much larger. They weigh around 23-25 pounds.
Like the Affenpinscher, they also require a lot of love and care. This is why people refrain from taming these dogs, as they find them ugly and too difficult to handle due to their fur.
#6 Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)
The Xoloitzcuintli dog breed, commonly known as the Mexican Hairless or simply Xolo, is one of several hairless dog breeds and is often regarded as one of the less aesthetically pleasing breeds.
Xolos come in three sizes: standard, intermediate, and miniature, with weights ranging from 10 to 55 pounds (approximately 5 to 23 kg) and heights spanning 9 to 26 inches (about 23 to 67 cm).
Xoloitzcuintli dogs share some visual similarities with the Pharaoh Hound. They possess sleek, wrinkled bodies, a characteristic that contributes to their distinctive appearance. Additionally, they have elongated necks, large bat-like ears, and almond-shaped eyes.
What sets them apart from other breeds is the fact that they only have a small amount of hair on their heads. Picture a hairless canine with a sleek body and a tuft of hair solely on their heads—it’s an unusual sight that can be disconcerting for many people.
The combination of their dark, textured skin and hairless physique, except for the hair on their heads, often leads to the perception of Xoloitzcuintli dogs as highly unattractive by many.
#7 Borzoi
Borzoi, also called the Russian Hunting Sighthound, is a Russian hunting dog with an oblong face and long legs.
The Borzoi breed has its origins in Russia during the 1600s and was a favored choice among the Russian aristocracy for centuries. It emerged as a result of cross-breeding between the Arabian Greyhound and robust, thick-coated Russian breeds.
One of the distinctive features of Borzois that some people find unattractive is their remarkably long faces, often likened to those of horses due to their elongated and slender snouts.
Borzois indeed possess a unique and somewhat peculiar appearance, characterized by their slender bodies, deep chests, and tucked abdomen, all of which contribute to a somewhat unconventional image.
Their lean physique is adorned with a coat of fine, shaggy hair that, despite efforts, can often appear untidy and unkempt. Additionally, maintaining their coat can be quite demanding, requiring daily grooming.
Furthermore, Borzois stand at a height of around 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh approximately 75 to 105 pounds, making their large size one of the considerations when owning one.
It’s worth noting that Borzois need ample space to thrive, which can be a drawback for individuals who may not have sufficient room to accommodate these majestic dogs.
#8 Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is an Italian breed known for its imposing and powerful presence, making it an effective guardian for your family, as few would dare to challenge such a formidable canine.
These dogs typically weigh between 110 to 150 pounds (approximately 50 to 70 kg) and stand at a height of around 60 to 75 cm (approximately 24 to 30 inches). Notably, their body length exceeds their height by about 15 percent.
In 2017, a Neapolitan Mastiff named Martha claimed the title at the World’s Ugliest Dog contest in California. The primary reason for this recognition was her substantial head adorned with numerous folds.
Neapolitan Mastiffs are characterized by their loose, folded skin, which includes dewlaps, as well as permanently wrinkled heads and front feet. Their distinctive head structure and body shape contribute to their intimidating and fierce appearance, which some may describe as unattractive.
These dogs are not only protective but can also be loving family companions. However, it’s important to note that they are heavy shedders and droolers and require protection from excessive heat due to their sensitive and abundant skin.
If you want to learn more facts about a Neapolitan Mastiff, click here.
#9 Pug
Pugs are small dogs that are instantly identifiable. They are known for having squished and wrinkly heads.
They weigh about 14 – 18 pounds and are very short in height, growing no taller than 10 – 13 inches. Their short heights make them seem ugly and unappealing. Despite their unfavorable physique, their lifespan is around 13 to 15 years.
The bodies of pugs are pretty small, but their heads, equipped with huge scary popped eyes, are quite large. These, paired with their short, fat necks, are what deter people the most.
In fact, pugs appear ugly due to being bred and deformed by human design, harboring a condition called brachycephaly. This means they have a tiny head, short muzzle, and a distinct skull shape.
However, brachycephaly facial structures in pugs take all of their naturally lengthened breathing passages, among other soft tissue, and squash them into their skull’s deformed and shortened shape.
Pugs are so ugly yet somehow so cute and adorable to their owners, maybe because of their fine, glossy coats that come in a variety of colors. Moreover, they are very social and gentle dogs that make a perfect companion.
#10 Whippets
This breed has a tiny little head with a pointed snout which gives them a hideous look. Often, the head is disproportionately tiny compared to the rest of the body, giving them a signature profile.
Whippets are medium-sized with a height of around 18 – 20 inches and long skinny legs that give them an unappealing look. They weigh approximately 20 – 42 pounds only.
Therefore, the body of the whippets is tiny and lanky. They have large ears that are rose-shaped with a fold in them, even when alert. Coupled with their huge and dark eyes, it gives them an edgy look.
Some people find them calm as they do not bark much and are better companions than sentry dogs.
Whippets can be trained for agility competitions because their lean bodies help them run extremely fast. They have muscular legs that help them sprint at record speeds.
However, the rest of their body doesn’t have a ton of bulk. Thus, they have a bony look that many find highly unattractive. Their lean and fragile nature doesn’t make them the best for cuddling either.
The Final Word on Top 10 Ugly Dogs
| KEY POINTS |
| The Chinese crested dogs have one layer of hair which grows on their head and extremities rather than their body, which gives them a naked look that many people may find odd and ugly. |
| A 17-year-old chihuahua mix from Arizona, named Mr. Happy face, has been appointed the world’s ugliest dog in 2022. |
| American Pitbulls have a short coat muscular structure with round shaped eyes, their ears are small, and they have long pointy teeth that give off a terrifying appearance. |
| Borzoi dogs have very long faces. Many compare them to horses because their snouts are so long and thin, which makes their appearance unappealing to most people. |
The dogs mentioned in this article are famous for their ugliness and are not the most beautiful breeds to look at. Still, they deserve a great deal of love and affection. Despite being ugly, these dogs are loving, caring, and protective – everything you need in a fury best friend!
Therefore, we must not let their unconventional looks be a turnoff and shower as much love on them as we would on any other beautiful breeds prevalent worldwide.
Thank for reading this article about the top 10 ugly dogs! Maybe all this dog-talj has inspired you to become a pet-parent? Head over to read about The Best Dog Breeds For Beginners to find out which type of dog would suit you best!
For any feedback please message to Feedback@animalsaroundtheglobe.com
- Magpie Bird Is Reunited with Her Dog Best Friend - April 24, 2024
- Dog Saves Another Dog From Drowning in Fish Pond - April 23, 2024
- Man On Motorbike Rescues Cat From Highway - April 23, 2024