Ever noticed a dog that resembled a moving mop? Or one that would look like a miniature werewolf? You are welcome to the fabulously freaky world of the rarest-looking dog breeds, where each tail wag is accompanied by a hefty portion of “Wait… what is that kind of dog?!”
These uncommon dog breeds do not simply blend in at the park; they steal the show. It could be their unusual looks, fluffy coats, or even their outright alien-like appearance.
Still, these pups were initially bred to do things as wacky as their appearance, from herding livestock to hunting small game, to being the ultimate loyal companion dogs with a sense of style second to none.
And their strange appearances should not deceive you either – several less popular breeds have intriguing backgrounds, loving personalities, and a good work ethic that make them every bit as lovable as their more classic canine counterparts.
Are you prepared to get acquainted with 10 eccentric dogs? Let’s get started.
Most Unique Looking Dog Breeds
1. Komondor
Just think of a large dog with what appears to be long, white dreadlocks hanging everywhere on its body. This is the Komondor, a Hungarian guard dog whose shaggy fur makes it look like a walking mop.
Historically, these dogs were used to protect livestock and blend in with sheep. According to AKC, the thick cords on their back help to keep them safe against predators and harsh weather.
Although they have a strange appearance, Komondors are strong, highly protective, and require firm training and regular physical activity to be happy.
2. Puli
Where the Komondor is grave, the Puli is its playful relative who also works as a backup dancer on the side. The Puli has a curly coat and is smaller, faster, and more energetic. Their cords also serve as protection against the weather and predators.
The breed was developed as a herding dog, and it has a lot of energy and does well in active families. The Puli may resemble a Swiffer covered in fur, but it is a genius in disguise. And yes, those cords are natural.
3. Skye Terrier
The Skye Terrier may be short-legged, but this elegant breed should not be underestimated. It has a long silky coat, feathered ears that are erect, and a no-nonsense attitude; it was hunted in small game such as foxes and badgers.
They also happen to have been famously adored by Queen Victoria, hence the royal vibes. Though this breed is calm and loyal, it is also extremely strong-willed and enjoys mental stimulation.
Skye Terriers are a noble-hearted breed. They can seem standoffish with people they don’t know, but when they trust you, they will protect your heart like they were trained to protect a castle.
PetMD states that they are hardworking and have a strong prey drive to hunt otters and burrowing animals, even though they are small in size. And yes, even your socks may not be spared.
4. Dandie Dinmont Terrier
This breed is named after a character in Sir Walter Scott’s novel Guy Mannering. The Dandie Dinmont Terrier has a top knot, short legs, and a long body shaped like a sausage.
It is a loving, beautiful dog that has a great sense of hunting and some stubbornness, which they retain to this day. These pups are small, but with playful energy and gentle loyalty, they are mighty, according to Hill’s Pet.
5. Brussels Griffon
Have you ever seen Star Wars and wished you could have a pet Ewok? This is the Brussels Griffon. It has a flat face, big eyes, and expressive features, which make it one of the most unique-looking dog breeds out there.
These are companion dogs that were originally bred in Belgium to help control pests, but have found favor with royalty and celebrities. Purina states that they may have grumpy little faces, but they are full of love, sass, and cuddle bugs.
6. Chinese Crested
The breed is a fashion statement or an “ugly-cute“ internet meme. The Chinese Crested has two varieties: hairless (except tufts on the head, feet, and tail) and powderpuff (a soft coat all over).
Despite their unique looks, these dogs are loving, humorous, and faithful. They are ideal lap dogs that love attention and will probably need a couple of sweaters in the cold.
These dogs are works of living art. Their skin requires special care, but their hearts are very warm. The hairless type gets a minor edge in the no-shedding category, and the powderpuff type shows up with a soft, fluffy coat.
They are both soft and lovable and enjoy cuddling under the blankets as though it were their part-time job.
7. Bergamasco Sheepdog
Another mop-dog? But the Bergamasco Sheepdog is not a corded dog; it is a dog with matted flocks that occur naturally. This is an Italian rare dog breed that was traditionally used to drive sheep in rugged mountains.
Their distinctive coat keeps them warm and safe against predators and needs surprisingly little maintenance, once the flocks have formed in the first year or so. Behind the woolly armor, there is a kind, smart, and very loyal dog.
8. Pharaoh Hound
The Pharaoh Hound looks like a dog that has just stepped out of a painting in an ancient Egyptian tomb. This breed is from the rocky islands of Malta and has a smooth coat, long legs, and an elegant appearance. What is their most unique feature? Their noses and ears get pink when they get excited. Isn’t it interesting?
Sleek and graceful, the Pharaoh Hound is a runway model in canine form. They are fast due to their athletic frame and long legs, though they are also well-known to be playful or even goofy around the house.
According to WebMD, they may resemble royalty, but they are more than willing to cuddle, play fetch, or display their trademark blush when they get too excited.
9. Catalburun
The Catalburun is a dog that has a split nose and is one of the few known dogs that have this kind of appearance, and you’ll not forget it. It is a Turkish breed used as a hunting dog, and it has an excellent sense of smell, and its muscular body is suited to endure long walks.
They are quite uncommon outside Turkey and are regarded as one of the more rare breeds in the world. They are cherished by dog owners because of their peculiarity and working dog attitude.
10. Xoloitzcuintli
The Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo, is a hairless breed with quite an intriguing history that dates back over 3,000 years to the Aztecs. These dogs were held in high esteem and were believed to escort souls into the afterlife.
Now they are silent, faithful, and uber low-maintenance (bye-bye shedding!). The Xolo is an unusual-looking dog breed with a smooth coat or even hairless that would suit the person who is seeking an ancient-looking, affectionate dog.
Conclusion
What have we learned today, then? That beauty is to be found in every shape, shaggy, hairless, split-nosed, and even blushing. These are the most unusual-looking dog breeds that may not win the classic canine beauty contest but will surely win over hearts (and Instagram followers).
If you like fluffy coats, long legs, short noses, or simply a breed with as cool a story as it has a look, these rare dogs will show you that being different is something to wag your tail about.
And why not, in a world where everyone has a Labrador or a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, have a dog that looks like it just space-traveled to Earth.
