Though we love our “muttigrees” for their individual personalities and varied good looks, there are some breeds that take unique to an entirely new level. We’ve asked Victoria Schade, dog trainer, speaker and author of Bonding with Your Dog: A Trainer’s Secrets for Building a Better Relationship to share the most unusual looking dog breeds.
Of course, if you’re researching breeds, we recommend you take disposition into account way before good looks. The most important part of finding the pet for you is committing to a critter who will become a true part of your family.
Xoloitzcuintli
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One of the oldest known dog breeds, the Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced shoh-loyts-kweent-lee), or Xolo, is also known as the “Mexican hairless dog.” The breed is believed to have been brought stateside during the migration across the Bering Strait an estimated 12,000 years ago and has remained on the list of known breeds since. Prized as a companion and a guard dog, Xolos are calm, attentive and intelligent. They require a gentle, consistent hand in training and require plenty of exercise in an enclosed area.
Komondor
Marcel Jancovic via Shutterstock
With a high maintenance coat that resembles dreadlocks, this shaggy dog is thought to have originated in Hungary more than 500 years ago. Bred to protect sheep, the Komondor’s trademark double coat consists of a coarse outer coat and dense wooly under coat, making it blend in with the livestock it protects, and requires extra care in both bathing and separating its cords. A true guardian, the Komondor is protective of its family and good with other pets. Independent and quiet, the breed can be stubborn and requires plenty of early socialization to ensure it is comfortable with new people and other dogs.
Dandie Dinmont Terrier
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A working terrier with a long, short build and a large head, the Dandie Dinmont Terrier’s bouffant makes it look “fresh from the beauty parlor,” Schade said. With a coat comprised of both soft and hard hair, the Dandie’s head is covered with silky, soft hair. With a dignified expression and independent nature, Dandie Dinmonts make loyal companions and excellent show dogs. The breed requires plenty of daily exercise and regular grooming to maintain its coat.
Catalburun
Pet Tribe via Flickr
This rare pointer native to Turkey is recognized by its “double nose,” which is split right down the middle, according to Schade. One of only three breeds to have a split nose (the others include the Pachon Navarro and the Andean Tiger hound), Catalburuns are unlikely to be seen outside of their native country and are known for their agility, hunting abilities and strong sense of smell.
Chinese Crested
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Another hairless or “naked” breed, the Chinese Crested has delicate skin that can be susceptible to sunburn, Schade said. With two varieties—hairless, with hair on its head, feet and tail, and Powderpuff, with hair all over—this small breed loves being around its people. Chines Crested dogs are willing to please, devoted and are good with pets, other dogs and strangers. Playful, calm and sensitive, the Chinese Crested dog requires regular exercise either indoors or outdoors. The hairless variety of the breed requires a sweater or coat for walks in cool climates and cold weather.
Brussels Griffon
Jagodka via Shutterstock
A proud, intelligent breed, the Brussels Griffon is easily recognized by their expressive faces and Muppet-like beards. With a compact, sturdy body, Brussels Griffons are driven and enthusiastic. Playful and mischievous, the breed can be stubborn and experience separation anxiety. As with every breed on this list, potential pet owners should do their homework and research important, behaviors, medical conditions and grooming needs of their desired breed before committing to it.
Jessica is a managing editor and spends her days trying not to helicopter parent her beloved shelter pup, Darwin.
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