Some four-legged companions defy convention and the following so-called weirdest dog breeds out there prove that. The truth is that each dog breed we encounter has a story as unique as its appearance so read on before rushing to label it one way or another.
1. Xoloitzcuintli
Xolos are Mexican dogs that come in the hairless or short coat options. Plus, they’ve got a reputation as mystical and healing dogs. Some people believe these dogs guide them both in this life and in the afterlife.
2. Puli
Here we have what could be portrayed as the mop-headed rockstars of the dog world. Those crazy, corded dreadlocks covering their bodies are definitely a conversation starter at the dog park. And a whole lot when you get home and you need a cleaning crew to get him clean.
3. Bergamasco Shepherd
Rocking a look somewhat similar to Puli dogs, these guys are hard worker canines. Bred as sheepdogs, they work rough and make for the perfect companion for children, their herding instincts play a huge role here. Their long, matted fur forms these crazy clumps that make them look like they just stepped out of Woodstock. Initially, their unique coat had just one purpose: to act like nature’s armor, keeping them safe and snug.
4. Komondor
Next up we have another big, fluffy cotton ball with eyes. That’s a Komondor and while it may look similar to Puli – because they share some genetic traits – this breed can reach up to 100 pounds while Puli dogs rarely go above 35 pounds. The Lomondor’s coat looks more like a bunch of fluffy ropes. They’re the ultimate cuddly teddy bears, but don’t let their chill exterior fool you – they’re fierce protectors, too, and they take their guard dog duties seriously.
5. Chinese Crested
Chinese Cresteds come in two flavors: hairless and powderpuff. The hairless ones are perfect for people looking for dogs that won’t trigger their allergy. The powderpuff variety is like a fluffy cloud of adorableness. Take your pick, you are bound to love this goofball forever.
6. Norwegian Lundehund
These guys have extra toes and can even bend their necks backward, making them the ultimate yogis of the dog world. Bred as a working dog, sometimes being used for puffin hunting. A sad fact: their life span is somewhat small, between 5 and 10 years.
7. Brussels Griffon
Meet a small dog breed with a ton of personality. Their bug-eyed expressions and beards, and default grumpy faces sure stand out at the dog park. Training sessions should be quick and repetitive as these guys tend to be a weird combination of stubbornness and smartness.
8. Azawakh
If you want a dog that’s practically a living artwork, Azawakhs are your choice. These African beauties are sleek, slender, and elegant. They look like they’re always ready for a fashion show on the Sahara. And yes, they’re as fast as you might imagine.
9. Bedlington Terrier
Picture a dog that looks like a lamb. That’s a Bedlington Terrier. With their curly, white coats and tongue out expression they are wonderful pets as long as you keep them exercised.
10. Peruvian Inca Orchid
Another breed that bets on the hairless look is the winning card. In Peru, people just call it Calato which, obviously, means Naked. There’s one drawback though: there’s only 1k of them in the world.
11. Irish Wolfhound
Gentle but huge giants, the Irish Wolfhound is the kind of dog you go for when you want a shaggy-coated partner for the couch cuddle. They’re enormous, rugged looking but deep down they’re just big softies with moderate exercise needs.
12. Borzoi
Borzois are like the aristocrats of the sighthound world. With their long, elegant bodies and silky coats, they rule every runway they walk on.
13. Ibizan Hound
A breed built for speed and agility, with its sleek bodies and large, radar-like ears. Not the type of hound you see very often, this breed comes in two coat varieties: smooth and wired, and we couldn’t pick a favorite even if we tried.
14. Cirneco dell’Etna
These Sicilian dogs have a distinctive look with their prick ears and sleek, slender bodies. Add good nutrition, lots of exercise, and the yearly physical, and you have a breed that can live up to 14 years.
15. Catalburun
The Catalburun is like a living puzzle piece in the canine world. What makes them stand out is their unique split nose, which is quite a conversation starter. They have a history deeply rooted in Turkey, and they’re known for their hunting skills and loyalty to their owners.
16. Bull Terrier
The quirky characters that can be sweet and affectionate companions. The trademarked egg-shaped head and muscular body make them one of the most recognizable breeds out there.
17. Shar-Pei
With their wrinkled skin and distinctive “hippopotamus” face, they’ve got a one-of-a-kind appearance. They’re not the most expressive in terms of emotions, but their loyalty is hard to beat. Add the blue-black tongue and you have a loveable cutie on your hands.
These extraordinary breeds have shown us that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and hairdos. Often labeled the weirdest dog breeds, these dogs show that looks don’t matter, beneath their funky or unexpected exterior lies a dog wanting to follow you to the bathroom every single time. Regardless of the breed you decide to go for, one thing’s for sure: you have just found your next best friend for life.
Recommended reading next: 19 Cute Dog Outfits That’ll Make Your Pup Look Irresistible
What is the rarest dog breed?
The Telomian is native to Malaysia and is known for its ability to climb trees and ladders. Not being widely recognized outside of its native region makes it a relatively rare breed so if you’re bent on having one you have to do a lot of digging.
Was the dog the first domesticated species?
Yes, the dog is widely believed to be the first domesticated species by humans. The domestication of dogs likely occurred tens of thousands of years ago, with estimates ranging from 20,000 to 135,000 years ago.
I’m a passionate writer with an insatiable curiosity for history, obscure facts, and the weird corners of the internet. When I’m not fact-checking bizarre stories or diving into historical mysteries, I’m exploring the strange and unusual to bring you the most fascinating tales.
A self-proclaimed weirdness enthusiast, who loves turning the odd, the quirky, and the unbelievable into engaging stories for curious minds.
My kids sometimes call me the walking Wikipedia, which can get very annoying sometimes.
