If you’ve been thinking about getting a new dog then you’re not alone – Kennel Club figures show that the number of people looking for puppies surged since the start of the global pandemic.
But with 221 different breeds of pedigree dog to choose from, there’s plenty of thinking to do before you select your family’s latest four-legged addition – whether you want a large dog, family-friendly dog, or crossbreed.
There’s even academic guidance to seek out, with Psychologist Stanley Coren’s book ‘The Intelligence of Dogs’ ranking breeds by instincts, obedience, and the ability to adapt.
Of course sometimes there’s a certain breed of dogs that we think looks particularly cute, with some going for the elegance of an Afghan Hound or the model dog looks of a Labrador Retriever.
But others want a dog that has slightly less obvious charm – we’re talking unusual looks, wrinkles in odd places, and beauty that’s more in the eye of the beholder.
Some might call them ugly, and some of their owners might even agree, but they still make loving and dedicated pets.
So, without wanting to hurt any canine feelings – here are the 10 breeds of dog that are perfectly, adorably and beautifully ugly.
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. PETALUMA, CA - JUNE 23: The 2006 World's Ugliest Dog, Archie, a Chinese Crested is seen during the 18th annual World's Ugliest Dog competition June 23, 2006 at the Sonoma-Marin Fair in Petaluma, California. Heather Peoples of Phoenix, Arizona and her dog Archie took home a $1,000 dollar prize for winning this years contest. (Photo by Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Photo: Justin Sullivan
9. Shar-pei
A challenger for the title of the world's wrinkliest breed of dog, it's sometimes difficult to work out where the Shar-pei's eyes are. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
10. Bloodhound
The Bloodhound's long face, pendulous ears, wrinkly face and slavering mouth may not be obviously attractive, but they are all designed to help them be the best tracking dog on the planet - able to follow scents from miles away. Photo: Canva/Getty Images