If you’re a typical dog owner, you probably believe that your pooch is the most lovely dog in the world. If you’re being a little more objective, though, you may admit that some dog breeds are a little more beautiful than others. There really are types that have been bred for looks, after all, and these are generally considered to be among the most beautiful dog breeds in the world.
Article Summary
The Most Beautiful Dog Breeds
Samoyeds
This breed is known wide and far for having a beautiful, white coat. While this was definitely an adaptation that helped the dog to survive in the rough Siberian winters, it’s now a look that puts this dog in high demand. Though keeping them beautiful requires a good bit of hard work, you’ll be rewarded with a dog who is incredibly affectionate and friendly.
Australian Shepherd
There’s something about the various shepherd breeds that makes them stand out. Perhaps it’s the color of their coats or the intelligence in their eyes, but these dogs are just plain beautiful. The Australian Shepherd is not just beauty, though, as this clever working dog can be a great family pet as well as an asset on the farm.
Pomeranians
The little Pom is one of those dogs that just brings joy to the life of anyone who happens to see them. Though they’re pretty, a great deal of what makes this dog truly beautiful has more to do with the dog’s personality. Curious and friendly, these are dogs that don’t take much effort to train but that will quickly become loving members of even large families.
Chow Chow
To many, Chow Chows manage to walk the line between being truly beautiful and actually being magnificent. When properly groomed and cared for, these dogs are gorgeous dogs who tend to stand out in the crowd. Though they may not always be the friendliest of dogs at all times, those who value independence and intelligence in their pets will fall in love with this breed.
Poodle
The poodle is honestly a bit of a cheat, if only because the dog tends to be the go-to standard for beauty in the dog world. While many might think of these dogs as finicky divas, they’re really anything but that. Incredibly smart and easy to train, these are ideal family dogs that simply need a bit of grooming to look their best. Poodles are also a dog breed that make incredible mixes, so picking virtually any pet with poodle heritage is a great way to get a good-looking pup.
Saluki
The Saluki isn’t the most common breed out there, yet you’ll quickly fall in love with one if you happen to see it on the street. These dogs are fast, energetic, and incredibly happy animals who love to stay on the move. Despite their high level of energy, though, they also tend to be incredibly beautiful dogs that wow those who judge dogs just on their looks. Though these dogs are a little more active than some might like, they can be great companions for those who always love to keep moving.
Maltese
There’s something about the Maltese that just screams ‘elegant’. Perhaps it’s the white coat that makes the dog seem to float along the ground or the clever little face that always seems to be focused on their owners, but these dogs really look great. Even better, though, these little canines are incredibly friendly and have no problem getting along with both human and animal friends. Maltese also take the cake when it comes to being easy to train, as these dogs tend to want nothing more than to please their masters.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound is one of those beautiful pets that need an incredible amount of maintenance to keep looking his or her absolute best. The great news, though, is that this breed is absolutely stellar. With long coats that are world-renowned for their flow, these are unique dogs who really stand out. Originally a hunting dog, these pretty girls and boys need a lot of space to run to stay happy and healthy but they do make up for it by being quite sweet.
Irish Setter
The Irish Setter is a real working-class beauty. Sure, the fur might be silky and the colors might be adorable, but what really makes these dogs stand out is the fact that they tend to be so friendly. They’re the kind of dog who loves to sit around with his or her owner but is just as happy to run around in a backyard or a park, making the Setter a perfect companion for many types of a dog owner. Relatively easy to train and excellent at getting along with other pets, these dogs do have a destructive streak that can crop up if they are not given enough to do. Fortunately, a little attention and plenty of activity can make this dog a docile and lovely pet.
Pharaoh Hound
Let’s be honest for a minute – there are probably plenty of readers who don’t quite understand how this dog made the list. In fact, there are probably many who would classify this dog as a bit odd-looking, but there are also many who think that their unique looks make this dog really stand out in the crowd. If you’re a fan of dogs who are relatively low-maintenance when it comes to their fur, you’ll love this breed that was actually designed for hunting big game. With that said, though, these dogs are now more cuddlers than hunters and they always love spending time with their owners.
Weimaraner
It’s very hard not to fall in love with these silver dogs when you first see them. Their coats are their pride and joy, standing out in a way that manages to make them look both friendly and approachable despite their beauty. Though these dogs do take an awful lot of work to keep happy, they’re relatively easy to train and housebreak. These dogs are heavy shedders, though, and they’re not always a good fit for those who have allergies.
Papillon
The Papillon is another one of those breeds that honestly looks a little bit ridiculous. Though they have a beautiful coat and a kind demeanor, these dogs are best known for the silly-looking ears that give them their name. Far more active than you might expect because of their size, these are perfect beauties for those who have plenty of space to let them run. The good news, though, is that they are also fast learners who are amazing competitors if you want to get them out on the agility course.
Shiba Inu
The Shiba Inu is such a cute dog that it has become a meme. Their unique look makes them a little more adorable than truly beautiful, but it’s hard to argue that point when the dog is trying to snuggle you. This is a pet that doesn’t just tolerate owners but also loves spending time with people, making the breed ideal for households with members of all ages. Astonishingly, though, this ultra-friendly breed can also have an independent streak, making them good for smaller households as well.
Alaskan Malamute
For some, it’s the wildness in a dog that makes him or her beautiful. This wolf-like breed is big and muscular, but the breed has a lovely coat that really makes it stand out. There’s nothing fancy about the way the dog looks, but its sheer ruggedness makes the breed stand out in a field that is often a bit more defined by being soft. The only downside to this breed is that most of them are actually fairly hard to take care of, as most need a lot of exercises and tend to be harder to train than some other breeds.
Rottweiler
Yes, the Rottweiler deserves its spot on this list. While many find the dogs scary due to unfounded stories about the breed’s aggression, the truth is that these are big and beautiful pets who have gentle eyes and big hearts. These are dogs who don’t just look great but have the kind of personalities that make people remember why they love dogs in the first place. When raised with love and care, these are incredibly loyal dogs who love to shower adults and children alike with affection.
Great Dane
The Great Dane may be the ultimate big beautiful dog. Truly huge animals, these dogs are actually quite elegant when you can get past the fact that they tend to tower over virtually every other breed of dog. Though you might not expect it from the goofy personalities that many Danes exhibits, there’s some dignity to these dogs when they are at rest. With that said, these are certified drool fountains who need a lot of space and a lot of training to become cognizant of their size, so they aren’t always a good fit for those who have never owned a big dog before.
Doberman
The Doberman joins the Rottweiler on the list as a dog with a scary reputation that nonetheless looks beautiful. In many ways, the beauty of a Doberman is predatory— they’re all strong lines and muscles, with aristocrat’s air about them. Amazingly, though, these dogs are big sweethearts that just need the right kind of training to unlock their sensitive sides. These dogs are big cuddlers who want to spend all their time touching their favorite people, so be ready for a dog who wants to spend time on the couch.
Dalmatian
While you might not want to spend time with one hundred and one of them, the Dalmatian is a dog who certainly stands out from the pack due to the animal’s unique spotted appearance. Famous for being working dogs and for their appearances in the film, these are dogs who are great competitors and hunters but who need a significant amount of exercise to stay in a good mood. These are not dogs for those who dwell in apartments and they’re not always great with kids, but a well-trained Dalmatian can be a great companion.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is usually ranked among the most-wanted dogs in the United States and the dog’s beauty is only a small part of the breed’s appeal. Incredibly intelligent and strong, these are dogs who can do everything from soothing crying children to working in the search and rescue field. In fact, one could say that the beauty of this dog is a bit wasted on a breed that already has so much going for it.
Akita
Finally, there’s the Akita. Big and muscular, these are dogs that look like they know what’s going on no matter where they happen to be. They are also fluffy and a little silly looking, which helps the dog to look more beautiful than frightening. Though these dogs have a history as guard dogs, they’re best kept now as pets for those who have plenty of time to socialize them and to teach them how to deal with people.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which is the most beautiful dog?
Honestly, this one really depends on what you consider to be beautiful. There are some out there who would immediately point to a breed like an Afghan Hound or an Irish Setter, while others might like Akitas, Dobermans, or Rottweilers as some of the most beautiful dog breeds. The real truth is always going to be that the dog who lives in your home is going to be more beautiful to you than to anyone else, so don’t fret too much about what other people think.
2. What are the top 10 prettiest dogs?
The common ones in the top ten most beautiful dog breeds in the world are the Samoyed, Australian Shepherd, Pomeranian, Chow Chow, Poodle, Saluki, Maltese, Afghan Hound, Irish Setter, and the Pharaoh Hound. As you might expect, though, this list is far from being objective and there are many other breeds who arguably deserve a spot in the top ten.
3. What is the most laid-back breed of dog?
The most laid-back breed is probably the Basset Hound. Though this dog can definitely get moving if you’re out hunting, most of these dogs are more than happy to spend their days lazing about the house and getting the occasional word of praise from their owners. With that said, though, almost any breed can be laid back when all of its needs are met.
