Some dogs look like they were sculpted by the gods—sleek, symmetrical, and straight out of a royal portrait. And then there are the others. The scruffy misfits, the bug-eyed wonders, and the wrinkly, waddling pups who resemble something between an alien and a very determined potato.
But here’s the thing—ugly dogs might just be the real head-turners. In fact, every year, the World’s Ugliest Dog Contest in California celebrates these unconventional cuties, proving that quirky is the new adorable.
Historically, some of the “ugliest” dog breeds were actually symbols of status and royalty. The Chinese Crested, a frequent winner of the ugly dog crown, was once prized by Chinese emperors and even sailed on trading ships as a rat-catching companion. Meanwhile, the Pug, with its famously smushed face, was a beloved pet of European aristocrats who admired its oddball charm.
So, if you’ve ever fallen for a pup with an underbite, a wonky ear, or a face only a mother could love, you’re not alone. Let’s celebrate the little oddballs who prove that beauty is overrated—but personality is forever!
Ugly Little Dog Breeds
1. Chinese Crested
At first glance, the Chinese Crested looks like it’s halfway through an unfortunate grooming session—bald in most places but rocking a glorious mane, tail tuft, and furry feet like a tiny canine rockstar. Despite its off-putting appearance to some, this breed is beloved for its affectionate and lively nature, making it a favorite among dog lovers who appreciate a pet with personality.
Originally bred as ratters on Chinese ships, these pint-sized pooches have a long history of charming Chinese emperors and lounging in luxury. PetMD states that their unique coat (or lack thereof) requires extra care—think sunscreen in the summer and sweaters in the winter—but what they lack in fur, they make up for in devotion. They’re the ultimate lap dogs, preferring to be glued to their humans at all times.
Though they may not be conventionally attractive, their expressive eyes and quirky looks give them a mischievous charm that’s hard to resist. Don’t be fooled by their delicate appearance—they’re incredibly agile and can excel in dog sports, proving they’re more than just a pretty (or peculiar) face.
Unlike other small breeds, they’re surprisingly low-maintenance when it comes to exercise. A few zoomies around the house and a cozy spot on your lap, and they’re content. But beware—these pups have a stubborn streak, so training might require patience (and plenty of treats).
In the world of ugly little dog breeds, the Chinese Crested is a true standout—part model, part snuggle bug, and 100% unforgettable.
2. Pug
Few dog breeds wear their wrinkly skin as proudly as the Pug. With bulging eyes, a curly tail, and a distinctive flat face, this breed has perfected the “so ugly, it’s adorable” aesthetic. As per WebMD, these little comedians are a walking contradiction—regal enough to have once been the prized pets of Chinese emperors, yet goofy enough to trip over their own feet while running to the food bowl.
Pugs are the ultimate companion dogs, always wanting to be by their owner’s side (or, preferably, in their lap). Their undershot jaw gives them a permanently concerned look, which only adds to their endless charm. But don’t let their royal past fool you—they’re more about playful antics than dignified behavior. Expect snorting, snoring, and a hilarious tendency to act like tiny, wheezing shadows that follow you everywhere.
Despite their adorable quirks, pugs are prone to high anxiety, especially when left alone. They thrive on attention and affection, making them ideal pets for families or anyone who wants a devoted sidekick. Just don’t expect them to be guard dogs—the only thing a pug might intimidate is a snack.
While they may not be built for dog sports, their energy levels come in random bursts—zooming around one minute, snoring like a Neapolitan Mastiff the next. And yes, they require extra care due to their breathing issues, but their loyal and gentle nature makes every snuffle worth it.
So whether you find them ugly or irresistibly cute, one thing’s for sure—pugs have mastered the art of stealing hearts (and probably your snacks).
3. Brussels Griffon
If you’ve ever wanted a pet that looks like a tiny, scruffy professor who’s slightly offended by everything, the Brussels Griffon is your dog. With a distinctive undershot jaw, big expressive eyes, and a permanently grumpy yet endearing expression, this pint-sized pup is one of the most off-putting yet adorable breeds out there. Some say they resemble a bulldog, others say a miniature Neapolitan Mastiff, but we prefer to think of them as the canine version of a Brussels sprout—unexpectedly delightful.
Originally bred as rat-catchers in Belgium, these little charmers quickly moved up the ranks to become pampered pets for European nobility. But don’t let their royal history fool you—they’ve retained their playful, mischievous spirit. They love attention, thrive in families, and have a big-dog attitude stuffed into a small breed body.
Their curly tails and scruffy beards give them a look that’s somewhere between a wise old man and a dog that just stuck its face in an electrical socket. They’re high anxiety dog breeds, meaning they hate being left alone and will express their displeasure loudly. If you’re looking for a quiet pup, the Brussels Griffon is not it—they have opinions, and they will share them.
They might not excel in dog sports, but they make up for it with intelligence and boundless enthusiasm. Training them requires patience (and possibly earplugs), but once they’re on board, they’re loyal and affectionate companions who stick to their owners like Velcro.
So, if you want a dog that looks grumpy, acts charming, and makes you feel worthy of their attention, the Brussels Griffon is the ultimate pet.
4. Bedlington Terrier
At first glance, the Bedlington Terrier looks like it wandered off a farm and accidentally joined a dog show. With its unique coat, curly fur, and an arched back that gives it a distinctly lamb-like appearance, this breed is a head-turner—even if people aren’t quite sure what they’re looking at. But don’t be fooled by its soft and delicate exterior—this pup has a fiery spirit and the energy of a dog twice its size.
Originally bred for hunting vermin and later used in dog sports, the Bedlington Terrier is as incredibly agile as it is elegant. They can outrun, outjump, and outsmart most other small breeds, making them a favorite among active dog lovers who appreciate both charm and athleticism. Their wrinkly skin and tasseled ears add an extra touch of quirk, making them an ugly dog breed that is oddly adorable.
Despite their delicate appearance, these pups are fearless and known for their confidence. They may not have the imposing size of other dogs, but they have enough attitude to compensate. When they aren’t zooming around, they’re happily snuggled up with their families, proving that they’re equal parts athlete and lap dog.
One of their best-kept secrets? They’re hypoallergenic, which means they shed far less than other dog breeds. That’s right—you get all the personality of a high-energy terrier, minus the excessive fur all over your house.
So, if you’re looking for a dog that’s part athlete, part aristocrat, and all personality, the Bedlington Terrier is a worthy choice. Just be prepared to answer, “What kind of dog is that?” at least five times a day.
5. Affenpinscher
If the Affenpinscher looks familiar, it’s because it resembles a tiny, scruffy Ewok with an attitude. With its undershot jaw, bulging eyes, and a face that seems permanently stuck between serious and slightly offended, this breed is one of the most off-putting yet irresistibly adorable dogs in existence. It’s a mystery how something that looks like it just tumbled out of a wizard’s beard can have so much confidence, but here we are.
Originally bred as a ratter, the Affenpinscher is packed with energy and personality. Don’t let their small breed status fool you—these dogs are fearless, often acting as if they’re guard dogs in a bulldog’s body. Their expressive eyes and human-like facial expressions make them a favorite among dog lovers who appreciate a pet with a little extra drama.
Despite their distinctive appearance, Affenpinschers are surprisingly intelligent and can excel in dog sports (when they feel like it). But be warned: they have a stubborn streak, and training them requires a mix of persistence, humor, and the ability to accept that they will always have opinions about everything.
They’re high anxiety dog breeds, meaning they prefer being glued to their humans at all times. If you leave them alone too long, they will let you—and the entire neighborhood—know about it. But when they’re with you, they’re loyal, playful, and adorably mischievous, always ready to entertain.
In the world of ugly dog breeds, the Affenpinscher is a true icon—a tiny pup with a big personality that proves beauty is overrated when you’ve got this much charm.
6. French Bulldog
If ever a dog perfected the “I woke up like this” look, it’s the French Bulldog. With its wrinkly skin, bulging eyes, and undershot jaw, this breed looks like it’s constantly contemplating life’s great mysteries—or wondering where the next snack is coming from. At first glance, they might seem off-putting, but spend five minutes with one, and you’ll quickly understand why they’re one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, says Britannica.
Despite their imposing size (just kidding, they’re basically small breed couch potatoes), Frenchies are loyal, affectionate, and have the energy of a bulldog compressed into a tiny, compact body. While they lack the stamina for intense dog sports, they excel in activities like zooming around the living room, snoring symphonies, and staring into your soul until you share your food.
They were originally bred as companion dogs for lace workers in France, and honestly, not much has changed. French Bulldogs possess a love for human attention that borders on obsessive, making them high anxiety dog breeds if left alone too long. They thrive in families, love snuggling, and will happily take over your lap, whether you invited them or not.
Between their curly tails, loose skin, and bat-like ears, they’re as cute as they are ridiculous. However, their wrinkly faces come with a downside—they are prone to breathing issues, so guard dogs they are not. The only thing a French Bulldog might intimidate is an unsuspecting pillow they’ve claimed as their personal throne.
So, if you’re looking for a dog that’s equal parts adorable, hilarious, and dramatic, the French Bulldog is a perfect pick. Just be prepared for a lifetime of snorts, snores, and side-eye.
7. Chihuahua
The Chihuahua may be the smallest dog breed, but don’t tell them that—they truly believe they’re the Neapolitan Mastiff of the toy dog world. With bulging eyes, a distinctive apple-shaped head, and a personality that can only be described as bigger than life, this pint-sized powerhouse is proof that attitude comes in all sizes.
Originally bred for companionship (and possibly world domination, if you ask them), Chihuahuas are fiercely loyal, high-energy, and surprisingly fearless. While they don’t have the imposing size of traditional guard dogs, their bark makes up for it—these little pups are confident enough to take on a Great Dane, despite fitting comfortably inside a purse.
Their curly tails, expressive eyes, and signature sassy stance make them adorable, but don’t be fooled—Chihuahuas have a stubborn streak a mile long. Training them requires patience, treats, and the ability to negotiate like you’re dealing with a tiny, four-legged dictator. They demand attention, expect to be the center of the universe, and will possess your heart whether you like it or not.
Despite their small breed status, these dogs have boundless energy. They can zoom around a room at lightning speed, only to curl up in your lap five minutes later, demanding to be adored like the royalty they believe they are. Their wrinkly skin might not be as prominent as a bulldog’s, but their facial expressions are just as dramatic.
In the grand world of ugly little dog breeds, the Chihuahua stands proud—tiny, fierce, and ready to rule the world one bark at a time.
Conclusion
In a world obsessed with conventionally attractive dogs, it’s the ugly little breeds that truly steal the show. From the scruffy and serious Brussels Griffon to the bed-headed Chinese Crested, these quirky canines may not meet traditional beauty standards, but their charm, loyalty, and larger-than-life personalities make them unforgettable. They prove that a curly tail, wrinkly skin, or bulging eyes are just part of what makes them one-of-a-kind companions.
At first glance, some of these breeds might raise an eyebrow—or two. But beneath their distinctive exteriors, they are playful, affectionate, and endlessly devoted to their humans. Whether it’s the snorting and snoring French Bulldog, the fearless Chihuahua, or the elegant yet oddly lamb-like Bedlington Terrier, these dogs redefine the meaning of adorable in their own wonderfully weird ways.
So, if you’ve ever judged a dog by its wrinkly face or thought a pup’s looks were too off-putting, maybe it’s time to reconsider. Beauty fades, but personality lasts forever—and these small breed misfits have enough to go around.
Now, the real question is: Which of these lovable oddballs has won your heart? Whether you’re a dog lover already or just discovering the magic of the ugly-yet-adorable, one thing is certain—life’s better with a little quirky canine chaos in it.
