Ugly Dog Breeds: 17 “Unconventional Cute” Dogs and What Makes Them Unique

Some dogs do not match the usual “pretty” template, and that is exactly why people fall for them. Underbites, wrinkles, hairless skin, extra-long backs, droopy ears, and corded “mop” coats can look unusual at first. These same features also create real care requirements that many new owners do not expect.

This pillar guide covers 17 unconventional-cute dog breeds, explains what makes each one look “ugly-cute,” and shows what that look often signals for grooming, comfort, heat tolerance, skin care, dental care, and daily routines. You will also get a quick comparison table, feature-based clusters (so patterns are easy to understand), a simple decision framework, and FAQs written for fast answers.Table of Contents

What are “ugly dog breeds”?

“Ugly dog breeds” is an internet label. It is not a veterinary category, and it is not a measure of a dog’s value. A more accurate term is “unconventional cute.” Many of these dogs are loved because their features look different: an underbite, heavy wrinkles, hairless skin, a short nose, a long back, or a dramatic coat.

Key takeaway: When a dog looks distinctive, the dog often needs distinctive care. The “cute weird” feature is usually a care feature, not just a style.

Why do people love ugly-cute dogs?

Most owners love these dogs for reasons that go beyond appearance.

• Their faces look expressive. Underbites, big eyes, and wrinkles can make emotions easy to read.
• Many are companion breeds. They often bond strongly and stay close to their people.
• They feel unique. A one-of-a-kind look makes the dog memorable.
• Personality contrast is charming. Some tiny dogs act fearless. Some giant dogs are gentle.
• Rescue appeal is high. Many unconventional-looking dogs get adopted because someone sees “special,” not “strange.”

Quick comparison table: Unconventional features vs care load

Use this table to self-select before you commit to a dog whose routine does not fit your schedule.

Unconventional feature	Why it looks “ugly-cute”	Main owner responsibility	Common owner mistake
Flat face / short nose	Big eyes, short muzzle, underbite	Heat-aware routine and calm exercise	Overexertion in warm weather
Skin folds / wrinkles	Deep facial or body folds	Clean and dry folds consistently	Leaving folds damp (odor and irritation)
Hairless / sparse coat	Bare skin and “alien” look	Skin moisture control and sun care	Over-bathing that causes dryness and itch
Extra-long back	Low-slung “stretch” body	Reduce jumping and protect the spine	Allowing stairs and sofa jumping daily
Very long ears	Droopy “sad” look	Regular ear checks and gentle cleaning	Ignoring odor and itch until infection
Corded coat	“Mop dog” cords	Drying discipline and coat management	Letting cords stay wet (skin problems)
Strong underbite	Teeth show even when closed	Dental hygiene and checkups	Skipping brushing because “teeth look fine”

Ugly Dog Breeds: 17 “Unconventional Cute” Dog Breed Profiles

“Ugly dog breeds” is an internet label, not a real category. What people usually mean is unconventional cute, dogs with standout traits like underbites, wrinkles, hairless skin, extra-long backs, very long ears, or corded coats. Those looks are not “bad.” They are simply different, and in many cases they signal specific care needs (skin routines, fold cleaning, heat planning, dental hygiene, spine protection, or coat-drying discipline).

Chinese Crested

 The Chinese Crested is a tiny companion dog famous for its mostly hairless body and soft “tufts,” which makes skin care part of daily life.
Height: 11–13 in (28–33 cm)
Weight: 8–12 lb (4–5.5 kg)
Size: Small (toy/small companion)
Why it’s unconventional cute: Hairless type with “furnishings” creates a very distinctive look.
Signature features: Mostly hairless body, crest on the head, expressive eyes.
Temperament snapshot: Affectionate, social, lively, strong bonding.
Care truths owners learn late: Skin can dry out and get irritated, so gentle products and routine skin checks matter. Sun exposure can be a real issue for pale skin.
Best for: Indoor companion homes and owners who can follow consistent routines.
Read next (cluster post): Hairless dog skin-care routine.

Xoloitzcuintli (Mexican Hairless Dog)

 The Xoloitzcuintli is an ancient Mexican breed that can be hairless or coated, and the hairless type needs simple but consistent skin protection.
Height: Toy 10–14 in (25–36 cm) | Mini 14–18 in (36–46 cm) | Standard 18–23 in (46–58 cm)
Weight: Toy 10–15 lb (4.5–7 kg) | Mini 15–30 lb (7–14 kg) | Standard 30–55 lb (14–25 kg)
Size: Small to Medium (varies by variety)
Why it’s unconventional cute: Hairless type looks sleek and statue-like.
Signature features: Smooth skin, athletic build, alert posture.
Temperament snapshot: Calm, loyal, observant, often reserved with strangers.
Care truths owners learn late: Skin care is usually easy, but skipping routines can cause dryness or irritation. Some need extra warmth in cooler homes.
Best for: Owners who want a steady companion and structured routines.
Read next (cluster post): Hairless dogs: skin, sun, and bathing frequency.

Peruvian Inca Orchid

 The Peruvian Inca Orchid is a sensitive, elegant sighthound-type breed that often comes hairless, so gentle handling and early socialization matter a lot.
Height: Small 10–16 in (25–40 cm) | Medium 16–20 in (40–50 cm) | Large 20–26 in (50–65 cm)
Weight: Small 9–18 lb (4–8 kg) | Medium 18–35 lb (8–16 kg) | Large 35–55 lb (16–25 kg)
Size: Small to Medium (varies)
Why it’s unconventional cute: Elegant hairless body and unique head shape.
Signature features: Lean frame, alert expression, often hairless.
Temperament snapshot: Sensitive, loyal, watchful.
Care truths owners learn late: Skin reacts quickly to harsh products. Without early socialization, sensitivity can turn into fearfulness.
Best for: Calm households and owners comfortable with gentle care.

Pug

 The Pug is a small, people-loving comedian with a flat face and deep wrinkles, so heat safety and fold cleaning are not optional.
Height: 10–13 in (25–33 cm)
Weight: 14–18 lb (6–8 kg)
Size: Small
Why it’s unconventional cute: Flat face + big eyes + wrinkles make expressions very human-like.
Signature features: Short muzzle, facial folds, curly tail.
Temperament snapshot: Friendly, funny, affectionate, people-focused.
Care truths owners learn late: Heat management is essential. Wrinkles need regular cleaning and thorough drying to prevent irritation.
Best for: Families who can commit to daily hygiene and cooler-hour walks.
Read next (cluster post): Flat-faced dogs: heat safety and breathing red flags.

French Bulldog

 The French Bulldog is a compact, playful companion with bat ears and a short muzzle, and it does best with controlled exercise and careful heat planning.
Height: 11–13 in (28–33 cm)
Weight: Under 28 lb (under 13 kg)
Size: Small
Why it’s unconventional cute: Bat ears + compact body + underbite create a bold face.
Signature features: Short muzzle, sturdy build, expressive “smile.”
Temperament snapshot: Affectionate, playful, stubborn-smart.
Care truths owners learn late: Heat sensitivity changes walk timing. Skin folds and allergies may need routine monitoring.
Best for: Apartment living with consistent routines and moderate activity.

English Bulldog

 The English Bulldog looks tough but usually acts gentle and calm, and the real work is keeping folds clean and weight stable for comfort.
Height: ~14–15 in (36–38 cm)
Weight: ~40–50 lb (18–23 kg)
Size: Medium
Why it’s unconventional cute: Heavy wrinkles and underbite give a “grumpy” expression.
Signature features: Deep folds, broad body, short muzzle.
Temperament snapshot: Calm, loyal, low-energy, people-oriented.
Care truths owners learn late: Fold care and weight control strongly affect quality of life, especially in warm climates.
Best for: Calm homes with time for hygiene routines.

Brussels Griffon

 The Brussels Griffon is a tiny “big personality” dog with a dramatic face, and it often bonds intensely with one person.
Height: 7–10 in (18–25 cm)
Weight: 8–10 lb (3.5–4.5 kg)
Size: Toy
Why it’s unconventional cute: “Monkey face” look, often with an underbite.
Signature features: Big eyes, short nose; rough coat can look scruffy-cute.
Temperament snapshot: Very bonded, alert, humorous, sensitive.
Care truths owners learn late: Dental care matters because small mouths crowd teeth. Gentle training works best.
Best for: Owners who want a velcro companion.

Pekingese

 The Pekingese is a small, independent companion with a flat face and heavy coat, so grooming time and heat management are key.
Height: 6–9 in (15–23 cm)
Weight: Up to 14 lb (up to 6.5 kg)
Size: Toy/Small
Why it’s unconventional cute: Flat face + “lion” coat silhouette.
Signature features: Short muzzle, heavy coat, wide-set eyes.
Temperament snapshot: Independent, loyal, confident.
Care truths owners learn late: Coat maintenance is a commitment, and hot weather needs extra caution.
Best for: Owners who enjoy grooming or budget for grooming.

Shar Pei

 The Shar Pei is a calm, reserved dog famous for wrinkles, and those folds make hygiene routines part of responsible ownership.
Height: 18–20 in (46–51 cm)
Weight: 45–60 lb (20–27 kg)
Size: Medium
Why it’s unconventional cute: Deep wrinkles and “hippo” muzzle.
Signature features: Heavy folds, small ears, compact body.
Temperament snapshot: Calm, reserved, protective.
Care truths owners learn late: Fold hygiene can’t be occasional, and ear canals can trap moisture.
Best for: Owners who like structured routines.

Neapolitan Mastiff

 The Neapolitan Mastiff is a giant guardian breed with dramatic loose skin, and its size turns care, space, and cost into major planning factors.
Height: 24–31 in (61–79 cm)
Weight: 110–150+ lb (50–68+ kg)
Size: Giant
Why it’s unconventional cute: Massive wrinkles and droopy face.
Signature features: Giant body, heavy folds, slow-moving power.
Temperament snapshot: Loyal, calm, guardian-minded.
Care truths owners learn late: Fold cleaning and drying are essential, and size affects transport, housing, and expenses.
Best for: Experienced large-breed owners with space.

Dachshund

 The Dachshund is a brave little “low rider” with a long back, and preventing daily jumping habits is one of the biggest care wins.
Height: Standard 8–9 in (20–23 cm) | Miniature 5–6 in (13–15 cm)
Weight: Standard 16–32 lb (7–14.5 kg) | Miniature up to 11 lb (up to 5 kg)
Size: Small (varies)
Why it’s unconventional cute: Long back + short legs.
Signature features: Elongated spine, bold expression.
Temperament snapshot: Brave, curious, stubborn-smart.
Care truths owners learn late: Stairs and sofa jumping can become routine back stress. Weight control matters more in long-backed dogs.
Best for: Homes willing to manage movement rules.
Read next (cluster post): Long-back dog home setup: stairs, ramps, and jumping rules.

Basset Hound

 The Basset Hound is a laid-back scent hound with iconic long ears, and ear hygiene is part of the normal weekly routine.
Height: Up to 15 in (38 cm)
Weight: 40–65 lb (18–29 kg)
Size: Medium
Why it’s unconventional cute: Droopy ears, loose skin, “sad” eyes.
Signature features: Long ears, strong scent drive, heavy bone.
Temperament snapshot: Gentle, stubborn, calm indoors.
Care truths owners learn late: Ear care must be routine, and consistent walks matter even if the dog seems low-energy.
Best for: Patient owners who like calm dogs.

Komondor

 The Komondor is a large guardian breed with a corded coat, and the hidden challenge is drying the coat correctly every time it gets wet.
Height: Males 27.5+ in (70+ cm) | Females 25.5+ in (65+ cm)
Weight: Males 100+ lb (45+ kg) | Females 80+ lb (36+ kg)
Size: Large
Why it’s unconventional cute: Corded “mop coat.”
Signature features: Long cords, guardian instincts, large frame.
Temperament snapshot: Independent, protective, serious.
Care truths owners learn late: Drying discipline is critical; grooming is a process, not quick brushing.
Best for: Owners who can commit to coat management.
Read next (cluster post): Corded coat grooming SOP.

Bedlington Terrier

 The Bedlington Terrier looks like a lamb but behaves like a sporty terrier, so grooming plus daily activity should be expected.
Height: 15–17.5 in (38–44 cm)
Weight: 17–23 lb (8–10.5 kg)
Size: Small/Medium
Why it’s unconventional cute: Lamb-like silhouette with a narrow head.
Signature features: Curly coat, arched back, unique profile.
Temperament snapshot: Playful, fast, terrier-bold.
Care truths owners learn late: Grooming schedules matter, and energy levels can surprise new owners.
Best for: Active homes that enjoy grooming.

Bull Terrier

 The Bull Terrier is muscular and clownish with an egg-shaped head, and it thrives when training and mental outlets are consistent.
Height: ~21–22 in (53–56 cm)
Weight: ~50–70 lb (23–32 kg)
Size: Medium
Why it’s unconventional cute: Egg-shaped head and small triangular eyes.
Signature features: Curved skull, strong build, powerful play style.
Temperament snapshot: Loyal, energetic, goofy.
Care truths owners learn late: Training consistency matters because the breed is strong and persistent. Boredom creates problems.
Best for: Owners who enjoy structured training.

Affenpinscher

 The Affenpinscher is a tiny dog with a scruffy “monkey” face and fearless attitude, and it does best with patient, consistent training.
Height: 9–11.5 in (23–29 cm)
Weight: 7–10 lb (3–4.5 kg)
Size: Toy
Why it’s unconventional cute: Scruffy “gremlin/monkey” expression.
Signature features: Wiry coat, bold face, compact body.
Temperament snapshot: Confident, spirited, fearless.
Care truths owners learn late: Grooming is moderate but necessary, and stubbornness shows up early without consistent routines.
Best for: Owners who like big personality in a small dog.

Borzoi

 The Borzoi is a tall, elegant sighthound with a long narrow head, and it needs safe spaces to run because its sprint drive is real.
Height: Males 28+ in (71+ cm) | Females 26+ in (66+ cm)
Weight: ~60–105 lb (27–48 kg)
Size: Large
Why it’s unconventional cute: Long narrow head and “alien-elegant” silhouette.
Signature features: Slim face, tall body, flowing coat.
Temperament snapshot: Calm indoors, very fast outdoors, sensitive.
Care truths owners learn late: Off-leash safety requires secure areas; size and coat require planning for grooming, transport, and space.
Best for: Calm homes with controlled exercise options.

What makes these dogs look “ugly-cute” (Feature clusters)

Flat-faced dogs (short muzzle, big eyes, underbite)

Examples: Pug, French Bulldog, English Bulldog, Pekingese, Brussels Griffon.
Owner reality: Treat heat and heavy exertion like a risk category.

Simple SOP

• Walk in cooler hours.
• Keep sessions short and calm.
• Watch recovery. If breathing stays strained, reduce intensity and increase rest.

Wrinkled or folded skin dogs

Examples: Shar Pei, English Bulldog, Neapolitan Mastiff.
Owner reality: Folds need clean and dry. Wiping without drying often fails.

Simple SOP

• Wipe folds gently.
• Dry folds fully.
• Check early for odor or redness and address it before it escalates.

Hairless dogs

Examples: Chinese Crested, Xoloitzcuintli, Peruvian Inca Orchid.
Owner reality: Exposed skin needs gentle products and consistent protection.

Simple SOP

• Avoid harsh shampoos.
• Moisturize only when needed and do not overdo it.
• Manage sun exposure and dryness.

Long-back dogs

Examples: Dachshund.
Owner reality: Daily habits shape long-term comfort. Jumping routines matter.

Simple SOP

• Use ramps for bed or sofa when needed.
• Limit stairs.
• Keep weight stable to reduce stress on the spine.

Long-eared hounds

Examples: Basset Hound.
Owner reality: Ear care works best as prevention, not emergency repair.

Simple SOP

• Do a weekly look-and-smell check.
• Clean only when needed (too much cleaning can irritate).
• Get a vet check if strong odor or discharge persists.

Corded or high-maintenance coat dogs

Examples: Komondor.
Owner reality: Drying is the hidden problem. Damp cords can trigger skin trouble.

Simple SOP

• Never leave the coat damp.
• Build drying time into every wash or rain event.
• Do not treat cords like a normal brushing breed.

How to choose the right unconventional-cute dog

The 5-question filter

1. Can you handle daily hygiene for folds, skin, eyes, or teeth?
2. Can you commit to grooming time or a grooming budget?
3. Do you live in a hot climate for most of the year?
4. Do you want a calm indoor dog or a high-energy dog?
5. Do you want low shedding or low grooming effort? (These are not the same.)

Lifestyle matching mini-table

Your lifestyle	Better matches	Avoid if you dislike…
Busy schedule	Short coats with fewer folds	Corded coats, heavy fold care
Hot climate	Breeds that handle heat better	Many flat-faced dogs
Apartment living	Small companion breeds	Giant guardian breeds
Low grooming preference	Truly low-maintenance coats	Long coats and cords

Frequently Asked Questions