15 Canines Sporting Natural Wrinkles

Dogs come in various shapes and sizes, and some are known for their distinctive wrinkled appearance. In the canine world, these breeds sport adorable folds and creases as part of their inherent charm. Let’s take a look at 15 such dog breeds known for their natural wrinkles.

Shar Pei

Let’s begin with the world’s most wrinkly dog breed! The Shar Pei is famous for its deep wrinkles and folds. These wrinkles helped protect them during fights when they were used as guard dogs in ancient China. As puppies, they’re extra wrinkly, but adults keep folds around their faces, shoulders, and tails. 

Bulldog

Bulldogs have a face full of wrinkles that give them their iconic, grumpy expressions. These folds once served a purpose in bull-baiting, directing blood away from their eyes. Today, their wrinkles need regular cleaning to prevent skin issues. Despite their rugged appearance, Bulldogs are known for their affectionate nature.

Pug

If you asked someone if they knew a wrinkle dog, they would probably think of a pug. Even though pugs don’t have many wrinkles like Shar Pei, they are beloved for their squished faces and wrinkled foreheads. Their facial wrinkles give them a human-like appearance but require careful cleaning to prevent infections.

Neapolitan Mastiff

This dog’s loose, hanging skin creates wrinkles throughout their massive body. These folds once protected them in fights against wild animals. Their droopy face gives them a distinctive, almost melancholy look. To keep them healthy and comfortable, however, you need to regularly clean their skin folds.

Bloodhound

You may have seen bloodhounds in movies and on TV. They have loose, wrinkled skin that hangs in folds, especially around their face and neck. These wrinkles allow them to trap scents that uplift their already incredible sense of smell. Bloodhounds’ creases give them a saggy, lovable appearance.

Dogue de Bordeaux

Also called the French Mastiff, this breed has a face full of wrinkles that add to its powerful appearance. Their loose skin once provided protection during fights. The Dogue de Bordeaux’s wrinkles need regular cleaning to prevent skin issues. In spite of their intimidating look, they’re known for being loyal to their families.

Chinese Crested (Hairless variety)

The hairless variety of Chinese Crested dogs often has wrinkled skin, especially on their face and body. These are more noticeable due to their lack of fur. Their unique appearance makes them stand out, but their bare skin needs protection from the sun. If you want their skin to keep looking healthy, moisturize them regularly.

Pekingese

Overlooking their small size, Pekingese carry themselves with a regal air, partly due to their wrinkled, dignified faces. Such creases add to their nature and lion-like appearance. The Pekingese dogs have a confident and serenely independent demeanor. However, they can be prone to dental and respiratory health issues. 

Bullmastiff

Like many dog breeds on this list, the Bullmastiffs have loose, creased skin, mainly around their massive heads. They were once employed as battle protection and were originally from England. Now, they make for an excellent watchdog. They are loyal to their owners and fiercely protective but don’t like to be around strangers.

Basset Hound

This member of the naturally wrinkled dog family is recognized for their long and floppy faces. Their loose skin and wrinkles, particularly around the neck, help trap scents as they track. They also possess sad-looking eyes, which give them a mournful appearance. 

English Mastiff

Similar to their French cousins, the English Mastiffs also possess a squishy floppy face. Their creased foreheads give them a worried or pensive look. But, despite their imposing size, English Mastiffs are known for their gentle and patient attitude, especially around children.

Chow Chow

Chow Chows have wrinkles on their faces, hidden beneath their thick fur. These wrinkles contribute to their unique, bear-like appearance. Their blue-black tongues, combined with their wrinkled muzzles, make them stand out. If you’re looking for a loyal dog breed, Chow Chow is the one!

Broholmer

Often called the Danish Mastiff, Broholmers sport subtle wrinkles that add character to their sturdy faces. Unlike some wrinkly breeds, their folds are less pronounced but still noticeable around the forehead and muzzle. While not as high-maintenance as other wrinkled breeds, Broholmers still benefit from occasional skin checks.

Tibetan Mastiff

These mountain dogs bring a distinct twist to the wrinkle game. Tibetan Mastiffs hide these creases under a thick, luxurious coat, unlike dogs with obvious folds. Their loose skin serves a practical purpose, providing extra protection against the harsh Himalayan climate.

Japanese Chin

While not as wrinkly as some of their larger cousins, these royal pups possess charming facial folds that give them an eternally worried expression. With their silky coats and poignant faces, Japanese Chins prove that sometimes the best things come in small, slightly creased packages!