While some dog breeds look fairly similar, such as golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers, others have quite distinctive features. They might sport a rare coat color or pattern, an uncommon shape to their ears or tail, or even wrinkles across their skin. Several dog breeds are notorious for the rolls their skin makes. These breeds come in many shapes and sizes. Some are very active dogs while others are happier to lounge around the house. And some tend to be friendlier than others, especially around strangers.
Here are 10 adorable dog breeds with wrinkles.
Tip
While wrinkled skin can give a dog some added charm and character, it also requires special maintenance. It’s important to thoroughly wash all those skin folds regularly with a gentle canine shampoo to prevent dirt and bacteria from getting trapped in them. The wrinkles also must be dried well.
Shar-Pei
The Shar-Pei is originally from China, where the breed was believed to have been a peasant’s dog thousands of years ago. Farmers used Shar-Peis as hunters, herders, and guard dogs because of their intelligence and brute strength. Their notable wrinkled skin and regal appearance help them stand out among other breeds. Puppies tend to have more loose skin, which tightens as they mature.
Breed Overview
Height: 18 to 20 inches
Weight: 45 to 60 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Compact, medium-size body; short coat with loose skin; small ears; wrinkles on head and back; curled tail; small, sunken eyes
Neapolitan Mastiff
Dating back centuries, Neapolitan mastiffs were historically bred to be intimidating gladiators in battle. While intruders are right to be afraid of the protective Neapolitan mastiff, with its giant head and massive frame, family members need not worry. This dog is typically a gentle giant around those they love, exhibiting a sweet, calm temperament. Its voluminous folds around its head and loose skin over its body just add to its charm. And its long jowls tend to drip a fair amount of drool.
Breed Overview
Height: 24 to 31 inches
Weight: 110 to 150 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Large, powerful body; large, droopy lips and wrinkled head; lionlike stance; short coat; colors include solid gray, black, mahogany and tawny; may have brindle coat pattern
Pug
If you haven’t played with a pug, you’re missing out. This Chinese breed is a popular companion for all types of owners and living situations. Pugs are small, relatively low maintenance, and typically very friendly and comedic. Plus, their wrinkled faces and large, expressive eyes make them look perpetually curious. And their curled tails always seem to be wagging.
Breed Overview
Height: 10 to 13 inches
Weight: 14 to 18 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Small but muscular body; short legs; typically fawn-colored with black faces; curled tail; short coat; rounded head; wrinkled face
Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux, also known as the French mastiff, was bred for its strength and protective nature. Many people love this breed for its intimidating looks in combination with its affectionate personality and fierce loyalty. Its large, muscular build has made it a favorite among soldiers, hunters, and farmers. And its wrinkled face with short ears and soulful eyes make it extra endearing.
Breed Overview
Height: 23 to 26 inches
Weight: 99 pounds and above
Physical Characteristics: Short, fawn-colored coat; large head; furrowed brow; short, stocky, muscular body; deep chest; wrinkled face
English Bulldog
Bulldogs originated in England in the 13th century to bait bulls. They are tough, muscular dogs that also have a friendly, sweet, and calm side. They eventually became companion dogs rather than fighters after the outlaw of blood sports. These dogs are easily recognized by the heavy wrinkles around their face and the loose skin that hangs around their mouth. They also have loose skin across their body.
Breed Overview
Height: 14 to 15 inches
Weight: 40 to 50 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Smooth, short coat; large head; short, stocky body; wrinkled face with loose jowls; colors vary greatly
Bloodhound
Most people have seen bloodhounds in cartoons and movies, famous for their tracking abilities and often spotted searching for a missing person or helping on a hunt. Bloodhounds are known for their excellent nose, along with their huge ears and droopy skin. Their skin hangs in especially deep folds around their head and neck.
Breed Overview
Height: 23 to 27 inches
Weight: 80 to 110 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Long, droopy ears; loose skin; wrinkled face with loose, flapping lips; standard color combinations include black and tan, liver and tan, and solid red; tall, alert stature
French Bulldog
The French bulldog is short in stature with a compact, muscular body and petite, rabbit-like ears. They sport fairly small wrinkles around their foreheads and mouths. Affectionately known as Frenchies, these dogs are friendly, funny, and alert. They make wonderful watch dogs and are known to bark at anything that might threaten their favorite humans.
Breed Overview
Height: 11 to 13 inches
Weight: 28 pounds and under
Physical Characteristics: Large, perked ears; compact, muscular body; smooth coat; wrinkled forehead and face; colors vary greatly but can include cream, fawn, and white as well as brindle and other combinations; large, square head with a short nose
Basset Hound
Basset hounds are perhaps one of the most recognizable dog breeds. They’re built low to the ground with long, drooping ears and very loose skin across their whole body. Even their legs tend to have wrinkles. These dogs were bred to be scent hounds. They are curious sniffers, able to accurately follow a scent for miles. They make great companions for hunters and families alike thanks to their top-notch tracking ability and calm temperament.
Breed Overview
Height: 15 inches and under
Weight: 40 to 65 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Short, strong legs and large paws; long, droopy ears; loose skin; wrinkled brow; short, smooth coat; coat color includes combinations of black, white, brown, tan, lemon, mahogany, and red
Xoloitzcuintli
Because their name is quite a mouthful, Xoloitzcuintli dogs are often called Xolos for short. They also go by the name Mexican hairless dog due to their country of origin and general lack of a full coat. Xolos are loyal watchdogs and loving companions. Their foreheads tend to wrinkle, especially when the dog is attentive or pondering something. But they generally do not have loose skin across their bodies.
Breed Overview
Height: 10 to 14 inches (toy); 14 to 18 inches (miniature); 18 to 23 inches (standard)
Weight: 10 to 15 pounds (toy); 15 to 30 pounds (miniature); 30 to 55 pounds (standard)
Physical Characteristics: Can be hairless with black skin or coated with short, flat fur; thoughtful expression; forehead is often wrinkled; long muzzle; long, sleek, strong body
Pekingese
The compact and dignified Pekingese has deep wrinkles on its face, which accentuate its short muzzle. This dog is said to have a lionlike appearance due to the long mane around its neck and its overall furriness. It also has large, expressive eyes and a loyal, confident, and fairly independent demeanor.
Breed Overview
Height: 6 to 9 inches
Weight: Up to 14 pounds
Physical Characteristics: Long, thick double coat; typically variations of gold, red, or sable; stocky build; short, wrinkled muzzle