While some dogs are loved for their behavioral traits, others are valued for their extraordinary looks. Some coolest dog breeds grab attention with their fluffy, long coats, while others steal hearts with their beautifully colored fur.
Some have single coats, while others possess thick double coats that provide protection against harsh weather. Some may not have long and luxurious coats, but their well-muscled or deep-chested bodies make them outshine other breeds.
Breeds with beautiful coats require lots of care and maintenance to stay in top-notch condition. These pooches not only look wonderful, but also possess super-adorable personalities. They are loving, affectionate, and incredibly loyal to their owners.
Here are the coolest dog breeds boasting extraordinary looks.
Coolest Dog Breeds Boasting Extraordinary Looks
1. Shiba Inu
Shiba Inu is a compact dog that was originally bred to hunt small game in Japan. This ancient dog breed is known for its independent nature and striking fox-like appearance. These Spitz dogs range in color from black and tan to red, sesame, and cream.
All Shiba Inus display “urajiro,” cream to white markings on their chest, belly, inside legs, and parts of face and tail. These attractive markings, combined with their triangular ears and curled tails, make them look super photogenic.
Their thick double coat requires regular grooming to keep it clean and healthy. They shed moderately throughout the year but heavily during shedding seasons in which they “blow” their coat. Shiba Inus tend to have a strong-willed personality, which makes training a bit challenging.
These loyal and loving dogs form deep bonds with owners but tend to be aloof of strangers. Shiba Inus groom themselves much like cats.
2. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds are medium to large-sized dogs with a long and thick coat of silky and fine hair. The hair is somewhat shorter on the back, often referred to as the dog’s saddle. A topknot of long hair cascades around their face and ears.
These tall and slender dogs have narrow faces and curved waists, explains WebMD. Their elegant coat comprises two layers, which provide protection against harsh weather. But it requires more than the usual amount of time for brushing.
You also need to acclimate your Afghan Hound pup to the routine of bathing and blow-drying. Afghan Hounds are not low-maintenance dogs and make a good fit for experienced owners. It is also an agile and energetic breed that requires a significant amount of exercise for stimulation.
Afghan Hounds are incredibly loyal and affectionate to their owners. They are smart and have an eager-to-please nature, but they are quite strong-willed and can be difficult to train.
3. Samoyed
Having an affectionate and super-friendly nature, Samoyeds possess striking coats and extraordinary looks. They are known for their characteristic grin, often referred to as the “Samoyed smile.” The natural upturned corners of their mouth always make them look smiling.
In fact, this smile is their adaptation to cold weather, as it helps prevent excessive drooling so that no icicles form around their face. These super cute dogs have a white double coat, which is quite long and requires lots of grooming.
The outer coat is longer with harsh hair, whereas the undercoat is thicker and woollier in texture. These big, fluffy dogs look irresistibly cute and are very social. Samoyeds are great with kids and greet strangers warmly.
Samoyeds are known for their playful nature. These active dogs are always jumping and running, but they are very protective as well.
4. Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are known for being naturally thin dogs. These swift and hardy dogs are the epitome of elegance and grace. Having a slender and muscular body, Italian Greyhounds are sinewy dogs with deep chests and curved backs.
Having a long and narrow head and fine muzzle, an Italian Greyhound’s coat can be any color, except brindle and classic black and tan. The short coat requires very little grooming, but does not insulate them well, so they can be easily affected by cold.
Italian Greyhounds have a gentle and friendly personality. They adjust well in most families and get along nicely with children and other pets. Their moderate energy levels, combined with low grooming needs, make them low-maintenance pets.
Italian Greyhounds were originally bred as hunters, so they have a naturally strong prey drive. It makes them unsuitable for homes with smaller pets like rabbits and cats, explains PetMD.
5. Basenji
These barkless dogs are recognized by their distinctive, tightly curled tail and wrinkled foreheads. Basenjis are fastidious dogs with cat-like personalities that have a short, glossy, and smooth coat. The coat comes in various color combinations.
Basenjis are active and high-energy dogs. Their minds require lots of attention, but they are low-maintenance in terms of coat care and grooming. A short brushing session once a week is completely fine. Their compact build, almond-shaped eyes, and sweet faces make them look extraordinary.
Basenjis are high-spirited and endlessly curious dogs. Their personality ranges from being charming and clownish to being aloof and independent. While they are loyal to their owners, but reserved towards strangers and can be unfriendly towards other dogs.
6. Dalmatian
Dalmatians are medium-sized athletic dogs that were originally bred as carriage dogs. Recognized by their iconic spotted white coats with black- or liver-colored spots, Dalmatians have muscular bodies. Their personality is a unique blend of unmatched stamina and friendly nature.
Their short, sleek, and glossy coat makes them look extraordinary, but it is surprisingly low maintenance. Occasional baths and weekly brushing help pull away the dead hair and keep the Dal looking its best. Dalmatians have a dignified aura; they can be aloof towards strangers and make dependable watchdogs.
These strong and active athletes require regular exercise for physical and mental stimulation. Thanks to their energetic personalities, they are better suited for active owners. Proper training and early socialization are important to turn them into well-behaved pets.
7. Shetland Sheepdog
Shetland Sheepdogs are cute and smart fox-like canines with bright eyes and a seemingly permanent smile. These charming pooches are the real “beauty with brains,” capable of turning heads with their adorable looks.
Shelties are devoted companions who look a lot like Rough Collies in appearance. Their long and straight coat looks like a mane around the neck and has luxurious feathering on the legs and tail, explains Purina. It not only makes them look beautiful, but also provides insulation.
Shetland Sheepdogs are highly intelligent and adaptable dogs who thrive in homes with yards where they can exercise their herding skills. Properly trained Shelties make great companions, playmates, and watchdogs.
Conclusion
The coolest dog breeds are valued by dog lovers due to their extraordinary appearance. Some of them turn heads with their fluffy coats, while others steal hearts with their sleek and deep-chested bodies. Dogs with luxurious long coats require extensive grooming.
On the other hand, these affectionate breeds with short and glistening coats are usually low maintenance. These wonderful dogs not only look good, but they are also beautiful inside and out. They make loving and loyal companions and bring warmth and happiness to your home.
