10 Most Ugliest Dogs in the World And Why We Can't Help But Love Them

Every year in Petaluma, California, the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest turns the internet into a giant “aww” machine.

We laugh at the wrinkly faces, wild teeth, patchy fur, and sleepy eyes and then we fall in love.

That’s the magic: these dogs may look unusual, but they are often loyal, sweet, and full of personality.

In this article, we count down the 10 ugliest dogs and show why the ones that look the strangest can end up stealing your heart the fastest.

1. Chinese Crested

The Chinese Crested is basically the poster child for “ugly-cute.” It has that famous mostly-bald look, a little puff of hair on its head, and skin that looks like it has seen some things.

It is the kind of dog people stare at for a second and then suddenly go, “Wait… I love it.”

There are two types: the Hairless and the Powderpuff, which is the fluffy version. But the Hairless one is the real celebrity when people talk about “ugly” dogs.

Honestly, a lot of owners would say their dog is just plain gorgeous in its own weird, wonderful way.

Temperament: Playful, affectionate, and super social
Size: Small (8–12 lbs)

Interesting fact: A Chinese Crested named Sam won the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest three years in a row, and basically became a legend.

2. Xoloitzcuintli

The Xoloitzcuintli, or “Xolo” for short, sounds like something from a fantasy movie, and honestly, it kind of looks like one too.

This ancient Mexican breed has been around for more than 3,000 years, which means it has serious main-character energy.

With its hairless skin, big ears, and lean body, it looks ancient, mysterious, and oddly majestic all at once.

Xolos can be hairless or coated, and they come in toy, miniature, and standard sizes. They are calm, loyal, and always alert, like the friend who notices everything first.

Temperament: Calm, loyal, alert — great watchdogs
Health note: Their skin needs protection from too much sun and cold
Cultural significance: The Aztecs believed Xolos guided souls to the underworld

3. Neapolitan Mastiff

The Neapolitan Mastiff is what happens when a dog gets born with permanent wrinkles and decides to own it.

This giant Italian breed looks like it has the world’s heaviest forehead, and somehow that makes it even more lovable. It is huge, droopy, and looks permanently tired — but in a very charming way.

These dogs were originally bred to guard homes in ancient Rome, so under all those folds is a serious protector. With family, though, they are usually gentle, loyal, and deeply attached.

Weight: 110–150 lbs
Temperament: Loyal, dignified, and deeply devoted
Grooming challenge: The skin folds need regular cleaning so they stay healthy

4. Bloodhound

The Bloodhound has one of those faces that makes you think it just got bad news from the mailbox.

The long ears, loose skin, and droopy eyes give it a super sad look — but do not let that fool you. This dog is basically a detective with paws.

Bloodhounds are famous for their nose, and they are ridiculously good at tracking scents.

They have helped police, and in some places their trail work can even be used in court. That is wild for a dog that looks like it needs a hug and a nap.

Scenting ability: Can follow a trail over 130 miles long and up to 300 hours old
Temperament: Stubborn, gentle, curious, and very affectionate

5. Puli

A Puli looks like a mop that suddenly became alive and learned how to herd sheep. Its coat turns into long cords as it grows, which makes the whole dog look like a fuzzy tornado with legs. It is weird, hilarious, and honestly kind of brilliant.

Those cords are not just for style. They helped protect the Puli from harsh weather and predators while it worked in Hungary. So yes, the hair is dramatic, but it is also practical.

Weight: 25–35 lbs
Coat maintenance: The cords have to be separated by hand, so grooming takes a lot of time
Temperament: Energetic, intelligent, and loyal

6. English Bulldog

Few dogs are as easy to spot as the English Bulldog — chunky body, big jowls, underbite, and a forehead full of deep wrinkles. It looks like a tough little heavyweight who has seen a few things, but underneath that face is usually a sweet, goofy family dog.

Fun fact: Bulldogs used to be bred for bull-baiting in England, which was banned a long time ago. Today, they are one of the most loved pets in the U.S. and the U.K.

But here is the honest part: their flat faces can cause real breathing problems, especially in hot weather. So they need extra care, regular vet visits, and owners who pay attention.

Ranking: #5 most popular dog breed in the U.S.
Temperament: Docile, friendly, stubborn, and brave
Key health concern: Regular vet check-ups are important for breathing and heat issues

7. Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei is the dog equivalent of a deeply wrinkled old soul. With all that loose skin and that famous blue-black tongue, it looks like it was folded up too many times before it was born — and somehow that is exactly why people love it.

This breed was once used for work in China, including hunting and guarding, and nearly disappeared completely before people stepped in to save it. That is pretty heroic for a dog that looks this squishy.

“Shar-Pei” means “sand skin,” which makes sense because the coat feels rough and scratchy, almost like sandpaper. Puppies are the wrinkliest, which is honestly adorable in a weird little gremlin way.

Temperament: Independent, loyal, calm, and devoted to family
Health note: Shar-Peis can get a hereditary condition called Shar-Pei Fever
AKC recognition: 1991

8. Borzoi

The Borzoi is the kind of dog that makes people stop and stare. Tall, slim, elegant, and a little dramatic, it looks less like a street-corner pup and more like it belongs in a palace. Some people think it looks strange. Others think it looks like living art. Both are fair.

Also called the Russian Wolfhound, this breed was built for speed and hunting. In other words, it may look graceful and delicate, but it can move like a rocket.

Temperament: Quiet, independent, and a little cat-like
Height: Up to 28 inches at the shoulder
Fun fact: Borzois were often gifted between Russian royalty and European nobles

9. Brussels Griffon

The Brussels Griffon has one of those faces that looks permanently annoyed — like it just heard someone say something ridiculous. With its tiny pushed-in nose, huge eyes, and scruffy beard, it has big “grumpy old man” energy in the cutest possible size.

But do not let the serious face fool you. These dogs are total lovebugs. They bond deeply with their people and often act like they have chosen one favorite human in the whole world.

It is the kind of dog that may look like it is judging you, but secretly wants to sit in your lap forever.

Weight: 8–10 lbs
Temperament: Curious, alert, sensitive, and strongly attached to one person
Celebrity fans: It appeared in As Good as It Gets

10. Peruvian Inca Orchid?

The Peruvian Inca Orchid, or PIO, is one of those dogs that makes people say, “Wait… is that even a dog?” With its hairless body, spotted skin, and sleek shape, it looks almost like it came from another planet. But beneath that unusual look is a loyal, loving breed with a serious history.

This dog has been around since pre-Inca times and was once considered sacred in Peru. People even believed it had healing powers, which is kind of amazing when you think about it.

Today, it is Peru’s national dog breed, and it is known for being quick, affectionate, and very alert.

Temperament: Affectionate, loyal, alert, and surprisingly agile
Rare fact: These dogs were kept indoors and only brought out at night
AKC recognition: 2020

Conclusion: “Ugly” Is Just Another Word for Unique

These dogs prove that “pretty” is totally subjective. The wrinkly ones, the hairless ones, the weird little mop-looking ones — they may not fit the usual mold, but they are packed with loyalty, history, and heart.

And honestly, that is why people love them. Their looks make you stop, laugh, and then melt a second later. So the next time you see one of these wonderfully weird pups, remember: you are probably looking at a dog that is unforgettable for all the right reasons.