There is something undeniably charming about bearded dog breeds. Whether you are looking for the sage old man look or the scruffy, adventurous one, they always manage to steal the show. Dogs with bearded faces are instantly recognizable by their facial hair, whiskers, and mustaches, which gives them a human-like appearance.
These furry-faced friends have personalities big enough to match their distinctive beards and make a loyal companion. The beard also helps them protect their nose and eyes from debris, water, and cold temperatures.
If you’re a fan of whiskered wonders or are just thinking of making one part of your family, particularly if you have young kids, get ready to meet the most iconic dog breeds with bearded faces—and see what makes each of them so lovable.
Whether you’re drawn to their majestic appearance or adore their personalities, these bearded face dogs make great companions, offering loyalty, confidence, and charm!
Dog Breeds with Bearded Faces
1. Airedale Terrier
First, let’s get into the Airedale Terrier, as we call it, “the King of Terriers”. If beards indicated nobility, an Airedale would have to sport a crown. With a beard screaming, “I’m so important but still down-to-earth,” this dog doesn’t need to shout to make its point.
Airedales are the biggest dog breed among terriers; they have temperaments synonymous with their size. These little bundles of energy and intelligence, with just a touch of naughtiness, have a lively personality.
They’ll chase after balls and enjoy a good roll in the mud, and then come back home to casually lounge with their owners. Airedales are confident, intelligent, and highly trainable, making a great choice for active households who adore a dog with both beard and brain.
According to Hill’s Pet, while most Airedales aren’t known for excessive barking, their typical terrier tenacity means they often have a strong tendency to dig and chew.
The Airedale is the ultimate dog, combining sophistication and fun. Just be prepared to see people staring at your dog’s beard in admiration… and maybe a little envy that they can’t grow one as nice.
2. Scottish Terrier
Scottish Terrier, also known as the “Scottie,” is small but has a pretty huge beard game on. Pointed ears, that perfectly shaped beard, and you have a Scottie.
Scotties are the literal epitome of “big things come in small packages.” They just never fail to impress and are confident, independent, and have the kind of personality that would make you wonder if they’re secretly running a business on the side.
As per PetMD, these energetic and self-assured dogs require regular physical activity and plenty of mental engagement.
Despite being all that small, that beard will surely tell you that they are not playing around. But while these dog breeds may look serious, don’t be fooled. Sure, these little guys love to play, and you can bet they know how to get into mischief just as well as they know how to look cute.
From sweet-talking your friends into cuddling them to looking back at you with their best “don’t mess with me” side-eye, there is more drama involved with their bearded face than you might guess.
3. German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer, the ultimate outdoor enthusiast with an aristocratic beard. This scruffy, wire-bearded dog takes on any adventure from hunting in the field to running through the forest.
The German Wirehaired Pointer is an athletic, medium-to-large breed that falls under the sporting group. They are known for their energetic personality and deep loyalty to their family.
One of the most striking features of this breed is its rugged, water-resistant coat along with a thick beard. German Wirehaired Pointers are the jack-of-all-trades. They are, of course, great hunters, but they also make fantastic pets.
Originally developed for hunting and retrieving, German Wirehaired Pointers are full of energy. They thrive best when given ample mental challenges, such as obedience training or interactive puzzles, as noted by WebMD.
Just be ready to wake up extra early for their morning run because with bearded charm comes a generous dose of athleticism!
4. Bearded Collie
And now to the Bearded Collie: The beard is as large as the dog’s heart. A fluffy cloud of a dog with a beard that seems to have a personality all on its own.
The Bearded Collie is the typical “happy-go-lucky” companion. They are social and very active, ready to bring a smile to any room they walk into and leave a trail of fur behind.
This medium-sized breed is a natural charmer with beards and flowing coats. Cute? Definitely, and they know it! Whether running across the yard or giving you that soulful look from the couch, the Bearded Collie’s beard only makes them all the more appealing.
Add that to the gentle nature of these dogs, and they’re quite wonderful with children and other pets. If you’re all set for snuggling with a dog with the biggest heart possible (and the busiest beard), the Bearded Collie awaits you. Oh, and keep a lint roller around, will ya?
5. Brussels Griffon
This pint-sized dog may have a mouse’s face cut straight out of a cartoon, but that little beard? It is pure charm. It’s kind of like a dog’s wise old man, who always has something to say, but in a much smaller model.
They do not have long flowing beards as big as their cousins, but they make up for that lack in character. The Brussels Griffon may be small in stature, but it is widely known for its exceptionally big personality.
‘The Griff’s big black eyes are described as ‘almost human’ coupled with a fringed beard and mustache covering his short muzzle, giving him the air of a worldly, French-speaking philosopher,’ according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
These dogs are fiercely loyal, a little mischievous, but utterly confident. That beard may sometimes present a wise, dignified appearance; however, inside, it is neither wiser nor more dignified than any other canine.
If you’re looking for the kind of charm that comes with a side of sass, get the Brussels Griffon-bearded companion for you. Just be prepared for their zesty energy, sharp wit, and the occasional “don’t-mess-with-me” glare-because even though they’re small, they carry all the heart and attitude of a much bigger dog.
6. Miniature Schnauzer
Miniature Schnauzer is the definition of don’t mess with me. That bushy beard and iconic bushy eyebrows give the impression as though it just jumped out of a film noir from the 1950s.
But that serious face is misleading; really, the Miniature Schnauzers are so spirited, feisty, and full of themselves, with plotting glances, most probably on what best grabs your attention through barking.
They are known for much more than their well-known characteristic facial hair; they are loyal as well, intelligent, but occasionally pack a bit of schnauzer sass.
Schnauzers need around an hour of exercise each day, along with frequent brushing to maintain their coat. They love activities like walking, hiking, swimming, and exploring their surroundings. According to Britannica, they’re great at organized sports such as obedience, agility, lure coursing, and tracking. Giant Schnauzers, in particular, also take pleasure in carting.
Whether they’re playing fetch or keeping an eye on the neighborhood, the Miniature Schnauzer is always on the lookout- and impressively doing it.
7. Lhasa Apso
Next, we have the Lhasa Apso, the small dog with a wizard’s beard. Indeed, these dogs are towering in yarns of elegance- their long silky coats flowing with their regal facial hair. Historically, Lhasa Apsos were originally bred to be royal watchdogs in Tibet, and it’s easy to see why.
With their dignified beard, aloof expression, they walk as if they think they are kings and queens over the entire world of dogs.
But don’t be fooled by their royal looks, a good cuddle is always welcome. While they seem to be busy watching kingdoms sipping tea, Lhasa Apsos are very loving and loyal to their families.
As per PetMD, due to their history as watchdogs in monasteries, they tend to bark a lot, particularly when alerting their family to potential intruders..
The beards on these dogs add to their unique charm, as if there were all kinds of ancient wisdom etched across their furry faces. If you’d like a dog that feels like your regal little companion with an icing of beard magic, the Lhasa Apso is your ideal match.
8. Irish Wolfhound
Irish Wolfhounds are gentle giants and wear their beard with honor. With a truly magnificent and wiry beard that matches the dignity of this breed.
The Irish Wolfhound has a calm and patient nature and makes an excellent companion, especially if you are into larger dogs with equally big hearts. Their facial hair brings forth an aristocratic aura of wisdom, like an ancient sage who knows the answers but won’t speak unless necessary.
Even though large, these weird-looking dogs are cuddly and sweet, and seem to form deep bonds with their family. They are generally soft-hearted and love hanging out with people despite their gigantic stature.
This versatile breed features a double coat consisting of a soft undercoat and a coarser, wiry outer layer. The texture of their coat is generally rough, with longer hair commonly growing over their eyes and beneath their chin. These dogs are usually lean and well-muscled in build.
Because of their strong hunting instincts, they might not get along well with smaller animals, as per WebMD. They can be wary of other dogs initially, but with gradual, supervised introductions, they often adjust and integrate well into a pack.
9. Yorkshire Terrier
The last on our list is the cutest small dog, the Yorkshire Terrier, barely standing at sizes between 7 to 8 inches and expressing a huge personality with a beard that says, “Do not be fooled by my size.”
While not the largest beard on the block, this one sure has its say. With a silky and flowing coat and that wee little beard, this popular dog breed seems to charm all that crosses its path. And it does.
Yorkies consider themselves adorable, spunky, and ready to take over the world: Their attitude is such that, along with their beards, they say, “I’m the king!” They are intelligent, spunky, and love to strut about.
Their tiny bodies do not intimidate them; they are fearless and dare to take on any dog double their size. So, if you want an adorable little dog with an equally adorable beard, then a Yorkshire Terrier is the choice for you. And let’s be honest, that beard can charm anyone’s heart!
Conclusion
Dogs with bearded faces stand out for their charm, character, and unmistakable look. A few other breeds that didn’t make it to the list are the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, Wire Fox Terrier, the distinguished Tibetan Terrier, and English Sheepdog; these bearded dog breeds come with not just a distinct beard but also personality and heart. Many of these breeds, like those in the terrier breeds and herding group, have a wiry coat or wiry topcoat that gives them their signature look.
Whether you’re drawn to the spirited traditional Jack Russell Terrier, the rugged Wirehaired Jack Russell, or the friendly Soft Coated Wheaten, these handsome dogs hail from a variety of backgrounds and coat types. While their bearded appearance adds to their charm, it also means daily grooming or visits to a professional groomer are essential to keep them looking tidy and healthy.
These typically friendly, wonderful companions do well with other dogs and are loved by pet parents for both their loyalty and unique appearance. Though they may have more hair than other breeds, their affectionate nature and lively spirit easily make them top dogs in any home.
