‘Ugly’ dog breeds are some of the world’s most unusual dogs. With their unique appearances, curious features, strange fur coats, or even a complete lack of hair, these dogs aren’t loved for their looks.
It’s such a shame because some of the world’s ugliest dog breeds are also the most lovable. On the inside, these dogs are loving and kind, loyal and intelligent, and ready to be your best friend!
In this article, we’ll explore the world’s ugly and weird dog breeds — the overlooked, misunderstood dogs that deserve a family and a home. From the Mexican hairless dog to the English Bull Terrier, here are the most unusual ugly dog breeds.
What Are Ugly Dog Breeds?
The word ‘ugly’ is very subjective. Our list of the world’s ugliest dog breeds isn’t meant to be the ugliest dog contest; we understand that what one person sees as ‘ugly,’ another finds beautiful!
The dogs that have made it onto our list, though, are characterized by unique features that don’t necessarily fall into place with common attributes that we consider, as a society, to be attractive in dogs.
None of these breeds will ever be considered the cutest dog in the world, but they have so much more to offer. We just want these ugly dog breeds to be given a chance!
Our list includes the following ‘ugly’ dog breeds:
- Mexican Hairless Dog
- Borzoi
- Pug
- Chihuahua
- English Bull Terrier
- Shar Pei
- Dachshund
- Irish Wolfhound
Let’s take a look at these ‘ugly’ pups in a little more detail!
#1. Mexican Hairless Dog
The Mexican Hairless Dog is one of the more unusual animals on this list because this poor dog is almost entirely hairless!
This hairless dog originated in pre-Hispanic Mexico and was said to be a favored pet of the Aztecs. They saw the real beauty in this often overlooked dog, and consequently, the Mexican Hairless Dog has been bred over many, many centuries to have a royal, regal character.
They might be hairless dogs, but the Mexican Hairless Dog is proud, independent, and incredibly loyal if you choose to take them in. They have a distinctive, hairless coat (that’s most often black in color) and distinctly pointy ears that stand tall.
#2. Borzoi
The Borzoi is a Russian hunting dog that has a very unconventional look and shape. Although it’s often considered to be a contender for the world’s ugliest dog, the Borzoi is also one of the most talented dogs in the world.
These working dogs were originally bred in Central Asia, where they worked as hunters and herders for the nomads of the steppe and the mountains. They can grow to over 30 inches in height, but their slender, athletic build means they can move fast.
The Borzoi has the body shape of a Labrador or Retriever but the facial features of a Greyhound. They truly are unusual, but they are unmatched in terms of athletic ability.
