5 Ugliest Dog Breeds in the World

Sam was a blind Chinese crested hairless dog who won the annual World's Ugliest Dog contest of California, three times in a row.

To me, no dog can ever be ugly. However, these so-called ugly breeds are considered ugly because of their unconventional looks viz. hairless bodies, odd-shaped heads, funny hair growth on different parts of their bodies, uneven teeth, unusual snout, etc.

However unique they might appear, but these dogs are just as faithful, loving, caring, and immensely adorable, as any other breeds.

Origin: Africa, China
Life Span: 10 - 14 years
Height: 11" - 1'
Weight: 5 - 12 lbs
Colors: Black, black and tan, blue, brown, gray, red, silver, white, yellow
Temperament: Affectionate, alert, gentle, lively, and playful

The Chinese crested breed is the smallest of the hairless breeds. These dogs may lack fur on their bodies, but they possess a silky and flowing fur on their head, paws, and tail. Their hairless bodies are susceptible to cold and sunburns; hence, they require protection from harsh climates.

The Chinese crested breed has sensitive skin, but this does not stop them from being active though. They make great watchdogs and companions for children. The Chinese crested are very protective towards their owners and other pets. The breed require very little exercise and being small, they make ideal dogs for apartments.

Origin: Central America
Life Span: 15 - 20 years
Height: 16 - 23"
Weight: 20 - 31 lbs
Colors: Black, brown, fawn, gray, slate, brindle, and red.
Temperament: Attentive, aloof, calm, and tranquil.

The Mexican Hairless were originally called Xoloitzcuintli. The first half of their name is derived from the Aztec god of lightning and dead-good underworld, Xolotl, and the second half is the Aztec name for dog, Itzcuintli.

The Aztec people believed that this breed escorted the dead to the underworld and were said to possess healing powers. It was also believed that they brought comfort to those suffering from asthma, insomnia, and rheumatism.

Xoloitzcuintlis were believed to frighten away evil spirits and intruders. They also were sacrificed and even eaten by the Aztecs. Their numbers gradually dwindled to the point of extinction. However, breeders and pet owners, revived this breed. And in 2010, the breed was considered as a national treasure and renamed after Mexico.

The Mexican Hairless are family-oriented, friendly, and highly adaptable, and make great companions for children. This breed makes for excellent companion and guard dogs. They require regular walks and adequate playtime.

Origin: China
Life Span: 9 - 11 years
Height: 46 - 51"
Weight: Male: 40 - 52 lbs
Female: 52 - 65 lbs
Colors: Red, red fawn, five-point red, black, black bronze sables, sables, cream, blue, apricot dilute, chocolate, lilac, isabelle.
Temperament: Affectionate, aggressive, independent, protective, loving.

The Chinese Shar-Pei, or Shar-Pei, originated in China's Guangdong Nanhai Dali Town area. The name Shar-Pei, meaning shark skin or sandpaper, is due to its tough and hard to penetrate skin. This breed is famous for its large wrinkled and droopy skin that covers its entire body.

Shar-Peis are a low maintenance, shed very little, are easy to train, fairly adjustable, and make great watch dogs. Though the breed requires regular walks, it is not interested in sports. Therefore, it does not make an ideal pet for young children.

Origin: United Kingdom
Life Span: 12 - 14 years
Height: Male: 16 - 18"
Female: 15 - 17"
Weight: 17 - 23 lbs
Colors: Blue, blue and tan, liver, sandy, sandy & tan, liver and tan
Temperament: Affectionate, good-tempered, spirited, intelligent.

The Bedlington Terrier was originally called the Rose Belling Terrier. They were bred to hunt hare, foxes, and badgers. The breed has a distinct stand-away coat, with a combination of hard and soft wooly fur. The fur tends to twist on its head and face.

Bedlington Terriers are great with children and other pets. They are easy to train and often excel in dog competitions. Their keen sense of smell, alertness, and hunting ability make them excellent watchdogs. This breed sheds a lot and requires regular grooming.

Origin: England
Life Span: 11 - 14 years
Height: 45 - 55"
Weight: 50 - 85 lbs
Colors: White, brindle & white, fawn & white, tri-color, white & black brindle, red & white
Temperament: Protective, intelligent, active, keen, sweet-tempered.

The Bull Terriers have short, sturdy, and powerful bodies. They have a flat coat which lies close to their skin. Bull Terriers have a quick temper and are known to hurt and injure other dogs. But, they are docile, obedient, protective, and very faithful towards their owners, making them ideal family guard dogs.

Bull Terriers are especially kind and patient towards children. However, they are not very pet friendly. And despite their fine coat, they do shed a lot.

Like any dog breed, these dog breeds too are very sensitive and affectionate towards their humans/owners. If you have one of these breeds, or are planning to get one, love them just as much as you would love any other breed, and treat them humanely.