There’s just something irresistible about a dog with a mustache and beard. Whether it gives them the look of a distinguished old gentleman or a scruffy, mischievous sidekick, facial hair adds instant charm—and a lot of personality. These dogs aren’t just stylish; they wear their whiskers with pride and often carry a history as bold as their looks.
Beards and mustaches in dogs usually come from generations of purposeful breeding, protecting their faces while they worked, herded, hunted, or guarded. Today, they add flair to already lovable breeds and make them stand out in any pack.
From shaggy shepherds to classy terriers, the bearded-and-mustached club includes breeds of all sizes and temperaments. Some need a little extra grooming, others just an occasional tidy-up, but all of them bring character to every corner of the room.
Ready to meet the dogs who wear their facial hair like a badge of honor? Here are 7 standout breeds with unforgettable whiskers.
Dog Breeds with Mustache and Beard
1. Airedale Terrier
The Airedale Terrier proudly wears one of the most iconic beards and mustaches in the dog world. Sometimes called the “King of Terriers,” this breed has a confident stance and a distinct facial profile defined by thick, wiry hair that frames the muzzle in bold style.
Originally bred in England’s Aire Valley, the Airedale was used to hunt otters and perform all-around farm duties. Its facial hair wasn’t just decorative—it helped shield the muzzle from debris and brambles during rugged outdoor work. The beard and mustache became natural extensions of its functional coat.
Today, the Airedale’s mustache gives it an intelligent, expressive look, often making it appear deep in thought, or on the verge of cracking a joke. The hair needs regular trimming and brushing to keep it looking sharp and clean.
Beyond its dapper face, the Airedale is active, alert, and energetic. This breed thrives in homes that can offer daily exercise, training, and mental challenges. It’s confident without being pushy and independent without being aloof.
Training should begin early and include variety, as this terrier is clever and easily bored. Positive reinforcement works best to shape good habits and respect.
The Airedale’s mustache and beard add bold personality to a breed that’s already full of character—smart, scrappy, and unmistakably stylish.
2. Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie lives up to its name in the most literal way—its beard and mustache are the heart of its shaggy, lovable look. Known affectionately as the “Beardie,” this breed’s facial hair is as long and flowing as its full coat, giving it a windswept, whimsical charm.
Bred in Scotland for herding sheep in rough, wet terrain, the Beardie’s coat (including its facial hair) was designed for function. Its long mustache and beard helped deflect weather, dirt, and debris as the dog worked tirelessly in the field.
Today, the mustache adds a touch of comedy to an already joyful breed. It’s part of what gives the Bearded Collie its unmistakable personality and presence.
Regular grooming is essential for this breed. The mustache and beard need daily brushing to prevent mats, especially after meals and playtime. While the coat takes time, it’s all part of the breed’s timeless charm.
Energetic, affectionate, and full of bounce, Beardies are ideal for active families, as stated by the AKC. They thrive on interaction and love to be part of everything, whether it’s a hike or a lazy afternoon on the couch.
With a bearded grin and an upbeat spirit, the Bearded Collie is a walking celebration of fluff, heart, and high style.
3. Berger Picard
The Berger Picard may not be as widely known as some breeds, but its rugged charm—and unmistakable mustache and beard—make it unforgettable. With its tousled coat and expressive face, this French herding dog looks like it walked straight out of a European countryside painting.
Bred in the Picardy region of northern France, the Berger Picard was developed to herd sheep with endurance and independence. Its facial hair evolved naturally as part of its coarse, weather-resistant coat.
The beard and mustache add to its rustic appeal, giving the breed a slightly serious, slightly scrappy look. Picard’s face is all about rough edges and personality.
Grooming needs are moderate. PetMD suggests that though their coat is low-shedding, regular brushing helps prevent mats, especially in the facial hair. Their beard tends to pick up food and water, so a quick daily wipe goes a long way.
Picards are intelligent, energetic, and loyal. They thrive with active families or owners who enjoy outdoor adventures. While initially reserved with strangers, they’re deeply affectionate with those they trust.
If you love a dog that’s athletic, soulful, and looks like it’s always ready for the next trail, the Berger Picard—mustache, beard, and all—is a hidden gem worth discovering.
4. Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon may be small, but its mustache and beard make a massive impression. With its expressive eyes, flat face, and shaggy whiskers, this breed often looks like a little professor—or a mischievous movie character.
Originally bred in Belgium to hunt rats in stables, the Griffon’s coat and facial hair evolved naturally for utility and flair. Over time, the beard and mustache became key features that make the breed look wise beyond its years.
Their facial hair is most prominent in the rough-coated variety, forming a thick fringe around the muzzle and jawline. It gives the dog a slightly grumpy, perpetually serious expression, even though their personalities are full of joy and sass.
Despite the dramatic look, grooming isn’t overly demanding. Regular brushing and the occasional trim around the mouth keep things neat. After meals, a quick wipe is helpful to keep the beard fresh.
Brussels Griffons are clever, affectionate, and very attached to their people. They often form a strong bond with one person and are happiest when included in daily life.
Small in size but bold in attitude, the Griffon’s mustache and beard are part of a big personality packed into a pint-sized pup.
5. Lhasa Apso
The Lhasa Apso is a regal little breed that wears its mustache and beard like a crown. Originally bred in Tibet to guard monasteries, its flowing coat and dramatic facial hair reflect purpose and beauty.
The breed’s beard grows long and blends seamlessly into its full coat, creating a striking outline around the face. Along with a flowing mustache, this beard gives the Lhasa its signature look—noble, serious, and alert.
Historically, the beard helped shield the muzzle from cold mountain winds and dusty conditions. Today, it adds a touch of elegance and old-world mystery to the breed’s modern presence.
Grooming is essential if the coat is kept long. Daily brushing helps prevent tangles, especially around the face, and many pet parents opt for a shorter trim to make maintenance easier.
Lhasas are independent, confident, and often aloof with strangers—but they’re deeply loyal to their families. They make excellent watchdogs and thrive in calm, structured environments.
With its flowing mustache, proud beard, and lion-like mane, the Lhasa Apso is small but full of heritage, personality, and presence.
6. Miniature Schnauzer
The Miniature Schnauzer has one of the most iconic mustaches in the dog world. Framing its rectangular muzzle with thick facial hair, this feature is part of the breed’s instantly recognizable, polished look.
Developed in Germany as a small farm dog and ratter, the Schnauzer’s beard and mustache served a practical role in keeping dirt and debris away from its mouth during work. That function still exists—but now, it’s a beloved aesthetic trait.
Their mustache is usually shaped into a blocky form, paired with prominent eyebrows for a strong, expressive face. Grooming includes regular brushing, wiping after meals, and trimming to maintain its tidy style.
Miniature schnauzers are intelligent, alert, and full of personality. They love being involved in family life and have a reputation for being vocal watchdogs without being overly aggressive.
They respond well to structured training, and their bright minds love new tasks. Their animated expressions are only enhanced by how their mustache moves with their mood.
With spunk, smarts, and a mustache that means business, the Miniature Schnauzer is as bold as its sharp style suggests.
7. Scottish Terrier
The Scottish Terrier, or “Scottie,” has a bold beard and mustache that perfectly match its proud personality. Compact and powerful, this breed’s signature look comes from its thick facial hair and long muzzle.
Originally bred in Scotland to hunt rats and foxes, the Scottie’s facial furnishings helped protect its face during underground work. Today, the mustache and beard are key to its strong, dignified appearance.
The beard flows down from the chin in a thick curtain, while the mustache frames the muzzle, creating a serious and slightly stubborn expression. Routine grooming keeps these features clean and defined.
Purina states that Scotties are independent, loyal, and known for their dignified air. They form deep bonds with their people but often take their time warming up to strangers.
Training Scottie requires patience and calm consistency. They’re smart but have a mind of their own, and they thrive when treated with mutual respect.
With a commanding presence and facial hair that’s as iconic as it is expressive, the Scottish Terrier is a true classic among mustached and bearded breeds.
Conclusion
There’s no denying it—dogs with beards bring a unique kind of charm to the world of canines. Whether it’s the scruffy style of a German Wirehaired Pointer, the proud fringe of a Scottish Terrier, or the polished whiskers of a Miniature Schnauzer, these bearded dog breeds wear their facial hair like a signature accessory.
Many of these terrier breeds showcase the typical terrier tenacity, bold personality, and, of course, those unforgettable beards. From the scrappy confidence of a traditional Jack Russell Terrier to the elegant grooming needs of a Shih Tzu, bearded dogs come in every size and attitude—including the spirited toy breed and the noble biggest dog breed types.
Some, like the Yorkshire Terrier, combine silky hair with personality-plus, while others, such as the Bearded Collie, sport a longer, shaggier look passed down through generations of working dogs. Whether their wiry coat evolved for protection or their beard developed for style, these handsome dogs hail from all over the world with one thing in common: unforgettable character.
So if you’re a fan of facial hair and looking for a dog that pairs personality with standout looks, these whiskered wonders are impossible to ignore. Among all the dog breeds, there’s just something special about those proud, bearded faces.
