When you stop to think about it, many dog breeds are aesthetically unappealing. These dog breeds have crushed-in faces, no hair on their bodies, barrel-bodied, bandy-legged, and pop-eyed or any combination of the foregoing characteristics.
When it comes to bigger dogs, their appearance might be an indication of their strength and, thus, their threat. A borzoi, for example, would not be spotted at a junkyard guarding the entrance. It has never been the case that a dog’s physical appearance has prevented it from being devoted, affectionate and adored, in addition to being obedient and energetic.
The list is in no particular order:
1. Chinese Crested Dog
- Common Name Chinese crested dog
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 13-15 year
This unlovable little mongrel is routinely nominated for and wins competitions for Ugliest Dog, and he is often the winner. The most frequent and ugliest variety of this dog is hairless, with the exception of a small amount of hair on the top of its head, ears, paws, and tail. A shiny coat covers the Powder puff’s body, which makes it quite appealing. The Chinese crested dog, whether it is in its natural state or with a full coat, is an agreeable and energetic companion who thrives in an apartment setting. It appears that this unfortunate-looking canine, which stands 9 to 13 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 5 and 12 pounds, has a short life expectancy for such a little dog. It has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years in the wild.
2. Neapolitan Mastiff
- Common Name Neapolitan mastiff
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 8-10 year
At the 2017 World’s Ugliest Dog competition held at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in California, a Neapolitan mastiff named Martha defeated all of the Chinese crested dogs in the competition. This was done in the name of a worthy cause. Nasal folds and dewlaps, wrinkled forehead, and sorrowful eyes distinguish the heads of Neapolitan mastiffs from their European counterparts.
There are even wrinkles across the toes of its front foot. The mastiff, which was designed in Italy as a protector and stands 26 to 29 inches tall and weighs 110 to 150 pounds, is a huge and strong dog. A genuinely big individual can weigh up to 200 pounds in body weight. All of these features are covered in a dense yet durable coat, which also includes the roached back, the powerful neck, and the big chest.
When it comes to family, the Neapolitan mastiff is a protective dog that appreciates being near to his owners. He is an ideal choice for families with children. It sheds a lot, drools a lot, and has to be kept out of the sun in hot weather.
This huge, unsightly dog suffers from health difficulties such as hip dysplasia and seldom lives more than ten years after being born. Despite its large size, the Neapolitan mastiff is able to live in an apartment, but it still demands adequate physical activity.
3. Bulldog
- Common Name Bulldog
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 8-10 year
The bulldog is considered one of the most aesthetically ugly canine breeds, and its appearance has been linked to health problems. In certain situations, because to its compressed face and undershot jaw, breathing becomes difficult, and due to its enormous head, Caesarean section delivery may be necessary.
It has poor vision, can’t handle high temperatures, even in heated environments, and is extremely sensitive to cold temperatures as well. This has resulted in the bulldog being mostly an inside dog with excellent temperature regulation.
The dog has a barrel-shaped body, short, bandy legs, and a pig-like tail that can wrap over its back at times, according to the breed description. Despite its intimidating look and the fact that it was bred to attract bulls, this dog is kind and friendly while still keeping its original attributes of boldness and tenacity, as seen by its appearance and breeding. It has a shoulder height ranging from 12 to 16 inches and weighs between 49 and 55 pounds, depending on the model.
It has a short coat that is easy to care for, but the creases around its face must be kept clean at all times to keep it looking its best. Because of its health problems, the bulldog has a life expectancy of around eight years.
4. Pug
- Common Name Pug
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 12-15 year
Similar to the bulldog, the pug also has a flattened face. In contrast to the Neapolitan mastiff, the dog’s expression is continually troubled, despite the fact that the dog is laid-back, friendly, obedient, and cheery in every other way. It has a stocky, tiny torso that is supported by two slender little legs on either side. It has small, curled ears and its tail is coiled over its back, precisely like a bulldog, and it looks like a bulldog.
This little dog was initially produced in China in the 16th century before being introduced to Europe and the rest of the globe. It is now found around the world. It is now 10 to 11 inches tall and weighs between 14 and 18 pounds at the shoulder, depending on the size of the animal. Its extended life span, along with its attractive demeanor, more than makes up for its outward look. The pug has a 15-year life expectancy on average.
5. Scottish Deerhound
- Common Name Scottish deerhound
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 8-11 year
When standing at the shoulder, this huge dog is 28 to 30 inches tall and conducts himself with grace and majesty. It is unappealing due to its unusually small and pointed head on a huge body, as well as its scruffy coat and beard, among other factors. Rather dull blue-gray resembling the hue of an old stockpot, the recommended fur color has been chosen.
As the name says, the dog was developed in 9th century Scotland to hunt deer, which it did wonderfully until the invention of firearms made it obsolete. Aside from its unsightly covering, it was protected from the elements. However, a lovely companion, despite its size, this dog is far too affectionate to be a reliable watchdog. It also makes an ideal apartment dog because it loves to spend its time indoors relaxing.
Its components are balanced enough to make it appear homely rather than ugly to a viewer, unlike the deerhound’s components, which are unbalanced enough to make it appear ugly.
6. Epagneul Pont-Audemer
- Common Name Epagneul Pont-Audemer
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 12-14 year
Make no mistake, the sophisticated French moniker isn’t a misnomer. This bow-wow is very spectacular. This gun dog, known as the Épagneul Pont-Audemer, is a very rare breed that was developed in 17th century France to flush and retrieve games.
The unkempt curls and feathers of this dog’s coat give it a unique appearance. It stands between 20 and 23 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 40 and 53 pounds, depending on the model. However, it has little influence on the dog’s overall look and just serves to make the coat waterproof. Additionally, its black eyes have lighter rims, as if it were suffering from vitiligo.
The Épagneul Pont-Audemer has an unusual look due to this, as well as a messy topknot on his head. It is also affected by alopecia areata.
7. Griffon Nivernais
- Common Name Griffon Nivernais
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 10-14 year
It’s easy to believe that the French give their ugliest dogs the most lovely names since they’re so used to it. Unfortunately, no amount of grooming will be able to make this dog’s coat appear nice and tidy, despite his determinedly scruffy appearance. It has a beard and mustaches, as well as an inexcusably short tail, which makes it look even more intimidating.
In the 1200s, the Griffon Nivernais, a massive dog with a shoulder height of 21-24 inches and a weight of 50-55 pounds, was used to hunt gigantic creatures. It is still in existence today and may be seen in the wild. Griffon Nivernais is not only unsightly, but it is also quite noisy. It is vivacious and human-friendly, yet it also has a strong sense of independence. It barks and bays at regular intervals, making it unsuitable for apartment life.
It may, on the other hand, live in a country house with plenty of space to run around and burn off some of its tremendous energy. When taking this dog on a walk, keep a tight grip on the leash since it has a strong chasing instinct. This breed may live between 10 and 14 years, depending on its health and well-being.
8. American Pit Bull Terrier
- Common Name Pit bull
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 8-15 year
Although it seems unsightly, this is precisely the goal. Its primary function is that of a guard dog and a buddy who will battle to the death for their owners. In America, it was initially bred for torturing bulls, and it is currently produced for fighting other pit bulls. 235 pounds per square inch of biting force and a big, unsightly cranium are among the characteristics of this canine.
Even while it isn’t very enormous, reaching 18 to 24 inches tall and weighing 50 to 80 pounds, it more than makes up for its size with sheer muscular bulk. Pit bulls are also recognized for having a high pain tolerance, which makes them excellent guard dogs. When compared to the dog’s strength and reputation, its unexpected playfulness and devotion for its family, particularly for the children, serve to counteract them. This unsightly dog has a lifetime of 12 years and is a stray.
9. Affenpinscher
- Common Name Affenpinscher
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 12-14 year
The unhappy affenpinscher is a terrier that looks to have been vanquished by one of the rodents for which it was trained on a regular basis. It features a snarling nose, piercing eyes, and a magnificent mustache. Its fur is in a state of disarray.
In fact, it has been given the term “monkey terrier,” which is exactly what its German name means, because of how it appears like a monkey. It was invented in Germany in the 17th century, measures 10 inches tall at the shoulder, and weighs just 7 to 8 pounds, making it a very portable piece of equipment. Despite its small stature, the affenpinscher is a fearsome protective animal.
The monkey dog is an excellent choice for apartment life, but it must be kept cool at all times. The coat of the animal, which is both rough and dirty, must be conserved, to put it another way. Trimming should not be done to the coat, but instead, it should be combed, brushed, and stripped manually on a regular basis.
It is recommended that if the owner is courageous enough to enter this dog in a legitimate dog show rather than an Ugly Dog Contest, that he engage a competent groomer.
10. Dogue de Bordeaux
- Common Name Dogue de Bordeaux
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 5-8 year
Several breeds of dog resemble this, including the Dogue de Bordeaux, which is one such example. We consider it one of our most obnoxious dogs, with a biting force of 556 pounds per square inch, which is enough to make a pit bull tremble.
Dogue de Bordeaux is a substantial-built dog, with a large ugly head, an undershot bulldog mouth, and a concerned look similar to that of a Neapolitan mastiff, much like the pit bull. It has a short, loose coat, and its hindquarters and legs are well muscled. Originally developed in France to defend animals and hunt wildlife, the Dogue de Bordeaux was also used to lure bulls into pens.
Besides being big and unattractive, this dog drools continually while it chews on its food. It ranges in height from 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighs between 80 and 100 pounds, making it a great watchdog while staying loyal and gentle with the family’s children. Unexpectedly, if given adequate exercise and walks, it may be a pleasant dog to have in an apartment. Unfortunately, the typical lifespan of a Dogue de Bordeaux is between five and eight years.
11. Borzoi
- Common Name Russian Wolfhound
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 7-10 year
The extra-long snouts of these regal dogs, as well as their royal demeanor, differentiate them from the others. Friendships with Borzoi friends are calm, sociable sighthounds who make excellent family pets (although they are not the ideal choice for very young children).
Despite the fact that Borzoi dogs make fantastic jogging partners, they will frequently demand a fenced-in yard to allow them to burn off some of their excess energy on a daily basis. Borzois are available in a variety of hues. Borzoi coats are smooth and flat, and their hair is either wavy or curly. It has a flat and wavy finish, with varying degrees of curling over the length of the hair.
Winter or colder climates cause the soft undercoat to thicken, while in the warmer season, the undercoat is lost to avoid overheating and hypothermia. When it comes to texture and distribution across the body, the Borzoi coat stands out. The frills on its neck, as well as the feathers on its hindquarters and tail, should be added.
12. Bergamasco Sheepdog
- Common Name Bergamasco sheepdog
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 13-15 year
If you are looking for a low-maintenance dog, the Bergamasco sheepdog is a fantastic choice. Their owners are committed and self-sufficient, yet these shaggy canines are quite fine to sit about and watch television for hours at a time.
The Bergamasco Sheepdog is exceptionally intelligent and eager to please, which makes the majority of training sessions a walk in the park for him. Known for its medium size, strength, and rustic appearance, the Bergamasco has a well-proportioned body. The horse seems to be almost square when viewed from the side, with the length of its body about equaling the height of its withers when viewed from the front.
Dogs are 58–62 cm tall at the withers, weigh 32–38 kg, while females are 4 cm shorter, and weigh 6 kg less on average than their canine counterparts. A long, thick coat that covers the whole body of the animal characterizes it. In harsh weather, the coat produces long matted locks that provide significant protection, particularly on the rear section of the body; the hair on the fore part of the body is coarse and generates wavy ringlets similar to those of a goat, whilst the hair on the head is finer and less protective.
Various shades of grey are acceptable, ranging from extremely light to matte black, with hints of ivory or fulvous allowed in certain areas.
13. Bloodhound
- Common Name Bloodhound
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 10-12 year
Despite their small size, bloodhounds are clever canines with a keen sense of scent. These charming sleuths have wrinkled features and like mingling with other dogs as well as with children of all ages. Because of their characteristic hound attitude, which first requires that you listen to your nose, these dogs can be tough to train even if they are nice to everyone.
The weight of a bloodhound can range from 36 to 72 kg. They range in height from 23 to 27 inches at the withers. According to the American Kennel Club’s standard for the breed, conformation judges prefer larger dogs. Bloodhounds may be found in a variety of colors, including black, liver, and red. In terms of skeletal structure, bloodhounds are very large, with the majority of their weight concentrated in their thick, lengthy bones. Its coat is firm and totally formed of fur, with no mingling of hair, as is the case with scent hounds.
14. Hairless Khala dogs
- Common Name Khala dogs
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 12-16 year
Khala dogs have a peculiar look and are mainly hairless, with little patches of hair around their snout and tail. They are also known as hairless dogs. Socialization with other pets in the house is a favorite activity for these group dogs, who also like their family and friends. Given the fact that Khala dogs are apprehensive of strangers, it is important to pay great attention to the socialization process.
Bolivian hairless dogs, also known as hairless Khalas, are a unique canine species that originated in Bolivia and are notable for their lack of hair. They have a similar look to the Xoloitzcuintli, and it is likely that they are related. These dogs are devoted to their owners and will protect them at all costs; consequently, training is necessary to maintain them amicable with other people and animals.
Some of these dogs, like other hairless breeds, have little tufts of hair, particularly on their heads, which distinguishes them from the others. Khalas is between 14 and 17 inches tall and weighs between 14 and 30 pounds. He has no hair and is hairless.
15. Shar-Pei dog
- Common Name Shar-Pei Dog
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 9-11 year
The characteristic folds of additional skin on the backs of these Chinese dogs make them easy to identify. These self-sufficient dogs are dedicated to their family, yet they are apprehensive of strangers when they are not with them.
According to historical records, the Shar-Pei is one of the oldest dog breeds, having roots dating back to China’s Han Dynasty. At the very least, it is said to be 2,000 years old! In spite of the fact that Shar-Pei dogs are normally quiet consumers, they are prepared to respond fast in order to defend their owners.
They require owners who are aware with the breed’s special training issues in order to be successful with their dogs. With its short hair and wrinkled skin, the Shar Pei is a medium-sized dog that is well known for its wrinkled skin. The breed is related to a number of mastiff breeds, but it is most closely related to spits breeds, with the Chow being the breed’s closest progenitor, according to genetic evidence.
The blue-black tongues of the two breeds, which are both different, are the most obvious manifestation of this. They are all related to one another genetically. The Chow, the Akita, the Shiba Inu, the Malamute, and the Greenland dog are all members of the same genetic group. Adult Shar Peis grow to be 44 to 51 cm tall and weigh 16 to 20 kilos, depending on the breed.
They have a short, rough coat that can be any solid color, with the exception of white, with the most common colors being black, red, fawn, and cream.
16. Peruvian Inca orchid
- Common Name Peruvian Inca
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 11-12 year
It’s no surprise that the Peruvian Inca Orchid is a popular choice among families because of its vibrant appearance. In the company of individuals they care about, these hairless four-footers are noble and friendly, yet they are distant among strangers.
Peruvian Inca Orchids are astonishingly beautiful; but, if the opportunity presents itself, they will joyfully pursue after a squirrel. According to the FCI breed standard, the absence of hair is the most important characteristic of the dog’s appearance. Hair on the top of the dog’s head, the tips of its paws, and the tip of its tail may be short or non-existent. Breeders in Peru are looking for dogs that are hairless.
Skin can be a variety of colors, including chocolate brown, elephant grey, copper, and speckled. Depending on the design, they could be entirely one color or have some pink spots. Albinism is strongly discouraged. When it comes to the color of the eyes, it is linked to the color of the skin.
Dogs with lighter skin may have sharper eyes than dogs with a darker complexion, despite the fact that their coats are typically brown. The canines, as well as a strong and harmonious appearance that is not coarse, should achieve a sleek and graceful aspect.
19. Pekingese
- Common Name Pekingese
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 12-15 year
In spite of its little size, the royal Pekingese exudes confidence and has a regal bearing. They are affectionate toward all family members, but they tend to develop a strong bond with one particular family member. A beautiful and opinionated dog, the Pekingese is not tolerant of excessive roughhousing, making them unsuitable for households with newborns or young children.
In households with older children who are aware of the breed’s limitations, they do, on the other hand, function admirably. When it comes to showing dogs, either a black mask or a self-colored face is permitted. The exposed skin on the snout, nose, lips and eye rims is always black, no matter what color the coat is.
Because of the excessive shedding and the need to avoid matting, this double-coated breed needs frequent intense grooming. Pekingese dogs normally weigh 3.2–6.4 kg and stand 6–9 inches tall at the withers, although they can be much less or much larger than that.
These smaller Pekingese are referred to as “Sleeve” Pekingese, or simply “Sleeves” in some circles. Rulers holding the smallest members of their species in their sleeves during ancient times gave rise to the moniker. A Pekingese that weighs more than 14 pounds is disqualified from competing in the show ring.
20. Puli
- Common Name Puli
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 13-15 year
With his scruffy appearance, this scruffy cutie is a quick and agile buddy that builds close bonds with his family. A characteristic of the Puli people is their curly hair, which is made up of tightly coiled bundles of water-resistant wool.
These canine companions demand families that can give them a range of activities, like as agility courses or puzzle toys, to keep them entertained. The Puli is a black dog with a solid color coat that is a solid hue. Coat colors such as white, grey, and cream are less popular. A large number of cream-coated dogs are dressed in black masks. The white Puli is not albino, and their eyes are not blue like those of the blue Puli.
Dark pigment, black pads, black noses, and black pigment within the lips are all common characteristics of this type of tattoo. The pure black gene is a recessive allele that is inherited from both parents. Females should measure around 16.5 inches at the withers, while males should measure approximately 17 inches. Males weigh 23-25 pounds, which is a little bit more than females.
A variety of coat textures are present in some Puli dogs, with thinner or thicker cords that may be flat or round, depending on the texture of the hair and the balance between the undercoat and the outside coat.
Are any of the Ugliest Dog Breeds also considered dangerous?
Are any of the Ugliest Dog Breeds also considered dangerous? The classification of the ugliest dog breed holds no relation to their potential danger. The list of the most dangerous dog breeds ranked is determined by a separate set of criteria based on aggression, temperament, and bite incidents. Physical appearance does not indicate a dog’s behavior or level of danger.
21. Komondor
- Common Name Hungarian sheepdog
- Diet Omnivore
- Lifespan 10-12 year
Komondor is the name given to a breed of Hungarian livestock security dogs that have a characteristic mop-like hairdo. This group of brave best friends builds strong relationships with their families while being cautious around outsiders.
Because the Komondor is a highly active breed, make sure yours has plenty of space to run about in. The Komondor is a medium-sized dog that may grow to be more than 30 inches tall, making it one of the bigger breeds of dog available. The entire body is covered in a thick, matted, corded coat. They have powerful, muscled bodies with long legs and a short back, which makes them look intimidating.
On the tail, there is a little curl carried. When viewed from the side, the body is shaped like a prone rectangle with its arms crossed. The length of the body, making the body somewhat longer than the withers, represents approximately 104 percent of the height at the withers.
With a huge head and a nose that is slightly shorter than half the length of the head and a scissor bite that is even and complete, the Komondor is a formidable predator. Lips and nose are typically dark in color.
