The choice of a pet is often determined not only by size and physical characteristics. Human taste is multifaceted, some breeders like fluffy little dogs, others like large, muscular handsome dogs. The tops of the most beautiful animals include breeds with different parameters, guard hair length, and color. But for the owner, the most beautiful is always his favorite.
The most beautiful dog in the world
Beauty is a subjective evaluation criterion. It is impossible to single out the most remarkable dog; each person has his own preferences. The popularity of the breed directly depends not only on the characteristics of character, temperament, but also appearance. The most popular in recent years have been northern dogs (Husky, Malamute, Samoyed), as well as Asian breeds - Akita Inu and Shiba Inu, Chow Chow. They combine not only beauty, but also innate intelligence and original character.
Photo: akc.org
Chinese Crested Dog
The breed is definitely the most original, because its body is not covered with hair. From the name you can understand that the only place where hair grows is at the withers. The skin of the Crested is pinkish-gray, covered with brown spots. The crest and “mane” are snow-white. Although there is also a subspecies of the breed - Downy Crested . These dogs have long, silky hair that is parted along the ridge.
The dogs' height does not exceed 30 cm. They are graceful, lean, and dry . A distinctive feature is long thin limbs, a saber-shaped tail with a fluffy end, and thin elastic skin.
Maltese (Maltese)
This dog is known to everyone from the cartoon “Dog in Boots”, the main fashionista, coquette and favorite of the queen. But this breed was not always pampered by royal feather beds. Animals appeared on the island of Malta from the crossing of native and continental dogs that arrived on ships.
For a long time, animals were considered workers: they sailed with sailors, protecting the fleet's supplies from rodents. The Maltese bravely conquered the waves and moved to the mainland, where they were noticed by aristocrats.
Noble people immediately saw the potential in the Bolonki: snow-white long hair, miniature size (up to 25 cm at the withers), short muzzle, easy-going character . Such a pet decorated the house and its owner, but also required daily careful care.
The breed does not shed, is considered hypoallergenic, to give the coat a shine, the Maltese is combed daily and trimmed regularly.
Papillon
A kid whose intellectual abilities were appreciated. Dog handlers put the breed in 8th place in the ranking of the smartest dogs. Indeed, Papilnon perfectly remembers words and understands the owner. But due to his development, he often puts his interests above the interests of the owner. Therefore, it is difficult to cope with such mental resources. A dog needs serious exercise, not only physical, but also brain training.
The name " Papillon " literally translates as " butterfly " from French. Dogs' ears are open in different directions, stand firmly on cartilage and are covered with long, thick hair, which creates a visual similarity to the wings of a moth. At the withers, the average height of the breed is 20-28 cm.
Russian toy terrier
A very proud and graceful dog. This breed is one of the smallest in the whole world. Toys do not have long, silky fur; they are smooth-haired and lean. Although the pets are miniature, reaching only 23 cm (weighing up to 3 kg), they have a strong character.
They have the following traits: nervousness, irritability, jealousy, sometimes even aggressiveness, but these qualities are not inherent in all representatives; in general, dogs are friendly with good mental abilities. They love their owner very devotedly.
Russian Tsvetnaya lap dog
In the Soviet Union, the direction of breeding decorative dogs was not popular; fashionistas of the USSR were forced to have the most elegant among large service dogs. But in the mid -50s, a new decorative breed was bred near St. Petersburg: a cross between the existing French Lapdog and small dark dogs imported after the end of World War II.
They turned out to be funny little dogs with long black and brown hair. But until now, Russian colored lapdogs have not been recognized by the world cynological organization.
These dogs have short legs, a long neck and a square body. Their fur is parted, falls over the eyes, and grows as they grow older. The undercoat is fluffy and thick, the guard hair is wavy and silky, always colored.
Shih Tzu
The height of these dogs is 27 cm at the withers. They are very elegant and graceful, have self-esteem, proud and calm. The breed appeared before our era on the territory of the modern Tibetan mountains. The breed was engaged in the protection of monastic cells. The puppy was later presented to the Chinese imperial family. Since then, Shih Tzus have become the property of the emperor. The common people were prohibited from breeding and keeping puppies until China opened its borders.
The name translates as “chrysanthemum”. This is due to the unusual growth of hair around the nose of animals, the hair is arranged like the petals of a flower.
Japanese Chin
Another Asian breed, which with its entire appearance confirms its imperial roots . Chins, like Pekingese, like Shih Tzu, served in the palaces of imperial families. They played with children and calmed royals. So the dogs got used to luxurious quarters, soft blankets, universal love and attention.
Their distinctive feature is long limbs and a small chest. Their standard color is black and white. Dogs with a short upturned muzzle, a bushy “fountain” tail and a luxurious thick and fluffy mane.
Top most beautiful dogs
Based on professional criteria for assessing the aesthetics of dogs, we tried to highlight the 40 most beautiful breeds. Among them there are representatives of almost all directions with a unique appearance.
Australian Shepherd (Aussie)
This breed was bred to work on farms and pastures, but today Aussies are increasingly chosen as a pet. They combine natural intelligence, harmonious physique and beautiful marbled coat color. Heterochromia, when the eyes are different colors, is common. They are easy to train; Australian Shepherds can often be seen at breed shows. The price of a puppy starts from 30,000 ₽.
Border Collie
These are some of the smartest dogs in the world. In addition to their unique intelligence, they have a very beautiful appearance. Their long fur is black and white, white and red, or white and chocolate. Particularly popular are border collies with a beautiful merle color and heterochromia. The dogs have a harmonious build and beautiful long ears. Cost from 20,000 ₽.
Alaskan Klee Kai
This is a young breed that looks like a smaller copy of a husky. They inherited from them not only their unique northern appearance, but also their habits - they are very active animals that require exercise. The miniature Klee Kai is easy to train and can become a real member of the family. Cost from 200,000 ₽.
American Akita
These large dogs, bred for protection, make excellent companions when trained correctly. They are notable for their plush, tri-colored coat and intelligent look. Despite their cute appearance, they have a serious character and require proper training. Price from 25,000 ₽.
Afghan Hound
This is an ancient breed of long-haired hunting dogs with a unique appearance. Like other greyhounds, they have thin limbs and are tall. A distinctive feature is its long and silky coat, which requires daily care. In addition to its beautiful appearance, the Afghan Hound also has an obedient character, which is suitable for beginners. Cost from 40,000 ₽.
Bernese Mountain Dog
This is a real giant; dogs of this breed can reach 70 cm at the withers. Despite their enormous size, they are affectionate and easily get along in an apartment. Their appearance is easily recognizable - a tri-color coat with a characteristic white “apron” on the chest. A puppy can be purchased from 25,000 ₽.
Weimaraner
The breed stands out for its aristocratic beauty and athletic build. Their body, velvety to the touch, is colored bluish, gray or cream. Eye color is usually light, which is often the cause of poor vision. In addition to their unique appearance, they are versatile hunters and easily get along even in a small apartment. The price starts from 25,000 ₽.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Today this breed has become the hallmark of the English royal family. The dogs have a long and short body, a reddish color. What makes them especially attractive are their unusual ears, which always stand straight up. The Corgi is an active and cheerful dog, suitable for families with children. Cost from 50,000 ₽.
West Highland White Terrier
These miniature and beautiful hunters have today become a real decorative dog, which is suitable for an apartment. They are notable for their coarse, snow-white fur; an interesting beard forms on their muzzle. Despite their small size, they have a powerful jaw and impulsive nature, which is important to consider. Price from 25,000 ₽.
Dalmatian
They have a bright and beautiful spotted color. Only individuals with black or brown spots on a white background are allowed for breeding. These are large and energetic animals that need regular exercise. Behind the beautiful appearance of the Dalmatian lies a very difficult character; the breed is recommended only for experienced owners. Price from 20,000 ₽.
Golden retriever
The breed has become very popular due to its combination of beautiful exterior and docile nature. Their golden fur seems to shimmer in the sun, and their eyes always express joy. In addition to their remarkable appearance, retrievers are known as excellent hunters, capable of flawless retrieval. The main disadvantage is gluttony, which can lead to health problems. Cost from 10,000 ₽.
Karelo-Finnish Laika
Outwardly, this husky can easily be confused with a Spitz due to its long fluffy red-copper coat. They have an athletic build and high intelligence, which is valued among hunters. Despite its beautiful appearance, the breed is recommended for experienced owners. Price from 10,000 ₽.
Keeshond
This is a variety of German Wolfspitz bred in Holland. The dog is small in size and has long fluffy wolf-colored fur. They are valued for their attractive exterior and lively character; they are very active animals. The breed is still not officially recognized by the FCI. Cost from 20,000 ₽.
Lhasa apso
A miniature dog, originally from Tibet, prized for its decorativeness and obedience. Their long coat requires regular grooming. Like other Asian breeds, Lhasa Apso have a difficult character and require training. Price from 25,000 ₽.
Maltese
The Maltese is an excellent choice for those looking for a decorative dog for an apartment. They became popular due to their doll-like appearance and long, snow-white fur. They require regular trimming and brushing. The lap dog is suitable for novice owners. Price from 15,000 ₽.
German Shepherd
This breed has greatly influenced the standards for dogs. They have a recognizable black-backed exterior and an incredible ability to learn. They are used in many countries as service dogs. They are easy to train and get along in an apartment, but it is important to check puppies for chronic diseases. Price from 10,000 ₽.
Norwich Terrier
These charming dogs combine decorativeness and fearlessness. Their miniature size hides an explosive temperament, which is important to take into account when training. They have a balanced build and a beautiful, coarse coat that requires trimming. Price from 50,000 ₽.
Papillon
The second name of the breed is continental toy spaniel. Her signature feature is her graceful ears, reminiscent of the wingspan of a butterfly. The coat can be colored in a variety of shades and requires regular brushing. Papillons are valued at shows and are suitable for first-time owners. Price from 15,000 ₽.
Pyrenean mountain dog
These gentle giants have practically not changed their appearance over many centuries. They have snow-white fur with a thick undercoat, so the dogs can be used as a guard for their own area. They are easy to train and maintain, but when choosing a puppy it is important to pay attention to the condition of its bones and eyes. Price from 30,000 ₽.
Pomeranian Spitz
Outwardly, these beautiful dogs look like a plush children's toy. They are notable for their long red or white fur, as well as their endlessly surprised look. Pomeranians are very easy to train, but it is important to pay attention to coat care. Price from 10,000 ₽.
German Spitz
Dogs of this breed can easily be confused with a Pomeranian Spitz, the main difference is a more elongated muzzle and a unique wolf coat color (red or white are allowed). They are excellent companions and have a balanced character, which is rare among decorative dog breeds. Cost from 20,000 ₽.
Royal Poodle
A well-groomed royal poodle is a real decoration for any exhibition. These beautiful dogs combine natural intelligence, an aristocratic appearance and a cheerful disposition. They are easy to distinguish due to their unusual hairstyles and curly fur. The breed is recommended only for experienced owners. Price from 30,000 ₽.
Russian greyhound
Dogs of this breed have a recognizable appearance - a thin body, a very long muzzle and hair that hangs all over the body. They are practically unable to express aggression and make good companions. The hound has been used in hound hunting for many centuries. When buying a puppy, it is important to pay special attention to the pedigree. Price from 20,000 ₽.
Saluki
These Persian Greyhounds were originally bred for hunting, but today the Saluki is bred as a companion dog. These are muscular dogs with a minimum of fat, capable of very fast running. The combination of an almost bald body and long hair on the ears makes them especially decorative. Disadvantage - hereditary puppies can only be purchased in Islamic countries. Cost from 60,000 ₽.
Samoyed dog
Samoyeds are considered one of the best caregivers in the canine world, as well as versatile companions. Another unique feature of the breed is its long, snow-white coat, which is capable of self-cleaning. They are suitable for novice owners and easily get along in an apartment. When choosing this beautiful dog, it is important to consider that they love seafood and fish. Price from 30,000 ₽.
Saint Bernard
This is a charming giant with an easy-going character. Their appearance became popular thanks to the film Beethoven, after which St. Bernards began to be often owned as a family dog. With proper training, they can become good rescuers or security guards. The price starts from 30,000 ₽.
Irish Terrier
This is a unique breed among the terrier group. They have standard body proportions, as well as the ability to run at incredible speeds. They combine an explosive temperament and coarse fur of a reddish-copper hue; a beautiful beard is formed on the muzzle. The Irish Terrier is only recommended for people with experience who can handle their energy. Price from 15,000 ₽.
Irish Setter
The breed was originally bred for hunting, but its luxurious chestnut color brought it great popularity as a pet. These are affectionate and beautiful dogs that do not cope well with loneliness. They require regular exercise and proper care for their long coat. Cost from 20,000 ₽.
English Setter
These beautiful dogs combine childlike playfulness and aristocratic manners. The breed is still used in waterfowl hunting. What makes them aesthetically pleasing is their athletic build and long, spotted coat. They rarely express aggression and easily learn new things. Price from 35,000 ₽.
English Cocker Spaniel
Medium-sized dogs, widely recognized for their docile nature and beautiful appearance. They are notable for their long ears, framed by curls. Despite its decorative appearance, the English Cocker Spaniel does an excellent job of finding and picking up game birds. Cost from 15,000 ₽.
Siberian Husky
The breed is one of the oldest; in recent years, huskies have become very popular due to their unusual wolf-like appearance and light eye color; heterochromia is often observed. There are different colors; a characteristic mask on the face is required. Dogs are not recommended for keeping in an apartment; proper upbringing is required from puppyhood. Price from 15,000 ₽.
Thai Ridgeback
Beautiful dogs are one of the symbols of Thailand. This is a rare breed that is valued for its combination of unique appearance and love for people. They have short, cream or gray coat that is very pleasant to the touch. The eyes of Ridgebacks look especially interesting, as they seem to be squinting. Cost from 60,000 ₽.
Pharaoh Hound
They are classified as primitive dogs, which are the ancestors of all modern breeds. The Maltese Greyhound is valued for its unique obedience and beautiful appearance. They have short brown fur, intelligent eyes and a well-proportioned build. Pharaoh hounds reach their peak appearance only at 1.5 years of age, which is important to take into account when preparing for an exhibition. Price from 50,000 ₽.
Podenco Ibicenco
The second name of the breed is Ibizan Greyhound. These are sporting dogs with a unique appearance. Among all greyhounds, they are easily distinguished by their short white-brown coat, light eyes and flesh-colored nose. They are easy to train and get along with children, and are playful animals even into old age. Cost from 50,000 ₽.
Sheltie
Scottish Shepherds are becoming more and more popular every year. Outwardly, they are an exact copy of a collie, but reduced in size. They have long, tri-colored or merle-colored hair, and puppies are often born with heterochromia. Shelties are among the ten smartest dogs in the world and are good nannies. Price from 30,000 ₽.
Schipperke
This is the smallest shepherd dog in the world, bred in Belgium. Initially it was used for hunting mice, but today the Schipperke is more often bred as a decorative dog. Their medium-length coat is colored deep black; other shades are not allowed. Beautiful appearance is combined with natural intelligence and a stable psyche. Price from 50,000 ₽.
Collie
This large herding dog with a beautiful long muzzle is very popular all over the world. Their calling card is a two-tone coat and a sly look. Collies easily learn new commands, get along with children and easily tolerate being kept in an apartment. Suitable for novice owners. Cost from 20,000 ₽.
German dog
Representatives of this breed are real giants; their height at the withers can reach up to 84 cm. They have the habits of an aristocrat and boundless love for their owner. Several varieties of Great Dane colors have been developed, the most popular being solid gray, black and merle colors. They are practically incapable of expressing aggression, but have the disadvantage of a short life expectancy. Price from 35,000 ₽.
White Swiss Shepherd
The calling card of this breed is its snow-white coat of medium length and harmonious build. Swiss Shepherds have excellent health and maintain it until old age. They become attached to the family and their owner, and are often used to serve as a guide dog. When choosing this beautiful breed, you need to be prepared for regular physical activity and caring for the snow-white body. The price starts from 40,000 ₽.
Irish Wolfhound
Today, these giants are kept only as companions. This is a very large dog, males must be at least 79 cm at the withers. They have hard wool of various shades, the most common color being gray. Wolfhounds are very patient and silent, and get along well with children. Behind the stern appearance lies a peaceful and playful character. All representatives of the breed grow slowly and have a short lifespan. Price from 50,000 ₽.
Beautiful small breeds
Sofa doggies are small apartment dogs – obviously decorative and plush. Almost all miniature animals attract the eye with their elegance and cuteness. But even with general exhibition standards, decorative babies are different: they can be fluffy or smooth-haired, squat or tall, with different shapes of ears, tails and faces.
Bichon Frize
A cloud dog, thanks to its voluminous curly coat, Bichons can be given any shape. This is a French breed, belongs to the group of lapdogs. In terms of format, Frieze approaches a square; at the withers it reaches no more than 25 cm . The characteristic standard color is snow-white. Yellowish or grayish shades are not considered a deviation from the norm.
The animals are decorative, although initially they served as rat catchers on ships and on the streets of France. They love to be the center of attention and are quite touchy and capricious. Their intelligence is well developed, so commands and tricks are easy for dogs. Bichons can often be found in circus programs and performances by street actors.
The breed requires careful care of its coat, teeth and claws. Despite its outward cuteness, any lapdog needs education and training. Otherwise, the pet will take the place of leader in the family.
Biewer Yorkshire Terrier
A breed whose origins are shrouded in mysterious stories. According to the official version, the puppy appeared by chance in the German Biewer family at the end of the 20th century. A baby with black and white fur appeared in a litter of regular Yorkshire Terriers.
Large spots are located on the chest, muzzle and paws. The beavers decided to continue the development of a new unusual breed and artificially bred several more animals with a similar color. The height of babies does not exceed 25-27 cm at the withers, they weigh up to 3 kg.
In character, Biewer Yorkies do not differ from standard ones, although some breeders believe that the new breed is softer and has completely lost the instincts of terriers and their characteristic bad habits: loud barking, digging the ground, hunting rodents and small animals.
West Highland White Terrier
Mischievous dogs, originally from Scotland, are excellent companions and loyal friends. These pets cannot be called indoor or sofa pets. Despite their modest size (up to 30 cm at the withers) , Vestikas are accustomed to the expanses of hills, green fields, and spreading mountains. The animals were bred as workers - hunters of small animals. They easily dive into rocks and pull out prey by the tail.
By nature, West Highlands are restless, cheerful, positive and always active. They need serious physical activity and good upbringing. And white double-layer wool will require serious care.
Distinctive features of terriers:
- long straight tail;
- strong, wide, squat body;
- short but strong paws;
- short muzzle with black nose and eyes;
- triangular small ears.
Briefly about the main thing
- The beauty of a dog breed can be changed by a combination of appearance and gracefulness in movement.
- The most beautiful decorative breeds are the Maltese, Spitz, Klee Kai, Sheltie, Norwich Terrier, Keeshond.
- Among the medium-sized breeds, the most notable are the Dalmatian, Thai Ridgeback, Pharaoh Hound, Ibicenco Podenco, Samoyed, Saluki, Husky and Aussie.
- The most beautiful giants are the Great Dane, Irish Wolfhound, St. Bernard, Afghan Hound and Bernese Mountain Dog.
Which breeds do you consider the most beautiful? Share your opinion in the comments.
Long-haired breeds
Among the most beautiful dog breeds, one cannot fail to note those with long hair. Caring for them takes a lot of time, effort and money, but it's worth it.
Afghan Hound
The thick and shiny coat of Afghan hounds does not shed on its own. Dead hairs are combed out with a comb, and the undercoat is plucked with a trimmer. The lack of natural fatty lubrication also adds to the problem. Without additional moistening with conditioners, the coat of greyhounds becomes matted and turns into an unkempt “felt boot.”
The character of these four-legged animals is similar to that of a cat. They are charming, sociable and sweet only at convenient moments. Despite their restraint, Afghan hounds do not tolerate ill-mannered children. An inadvertently pinched tail is a strong argument for resentment and lifelong hostility.
Irish Setter
The luxurious chestnut coat of the setter is familiar from dog food advertisements. The fur does not have a distinct dog smell and sheds very little, but it constantly gets tangled and catches thorns.
Emotional and active pets are dependent on communication with other animals and people. Because of this, it is strictly forbidden to leave them alone.
Golden retriever
It is impossible to imagine a happy American family without a golden retriever with luxurious iridescent fur. These four-legged dogs get along well with children and take 4th place among the smartest breeds.
After communicating with a retriever, it is impossible to remain indifferent. This good-natured creature is the best “antidepressant”, which is why it is actively used in pet therapy.
Scottish Sheepdog (Collie)
The glamorous coat of long-haired collies protects against low temperatures, but sheds very heavily and constantly gets matted. These pets need to be combed often and only after moisturizing with a spray.
Scottish Shepherds are peaceful and sociable. They find a common language not only with other dogs, but also with cats, hamsters and even parrots.
Samoyed dog
The snow-white Samoyed has thick and fluffy fur. Contrary to popular belief, it is very easy to care for. The Samoyed's coat does not get wet and can self-clean thanks to the natural oils that are part of the natural fat layer.
These four-legged animals are friendly, playful and smart. They love to work in a team and are not at all prone to conflict behavior. Their favorite sport is sledding, so Samoyeds enjoy sledding their children.
Chow chow
The plush chow chow resembles a miniature version of a bear. Despite its cute appearance, this pet is very independent and stubborn. He shows his love very discreetly and only to one owner.
The chow chow's lion's mane practically does not get dirty, so the dog is bathed only 2-3 times a year. The problem with tangles occurs only in the armpits and behind the ears.
Shih Tzu
The satiny coat of the Shih Tzu gives them a chrysanthemum-like appearance. She needs frequent washing and daily brushing. If you don’t have enough free time, it’s best to entrust all grooming procedures to a groomer.
Shih Tzus do not tolerate loneliness. Long hours of separation from their owner have a detrimental effect on their psyche, turning animals into depressed and nervous creatures.
Pomeranian Spitz
The orange's pretty face is deceiving. This charming little guy is smart and stubborn. Only an experienced dog breeder can cope with his training. With newcomers, the Spitz behaves extremely arrogantly, demonstratively refusing to follow commands.
The main feature of the Pomeranian is its profuse barking for any reason. It is almost impossible to break this habit.
General characteristics of the dog breed
All dog breeds have the following traits:
- the composition of each breed is a certain number of individual animals that pass on morphological and beneficial properties for humans from generation to generation;
- dogs of the same breed are similar to each other in appearance and behavior, since they are descendants of the same set of ancestors, which were artificially selected by humans during the selection process;
- A dog's belonging to its breed is confirmed through genetic analysis or through a written record of its origin. Stud books are the name given to records kept by organizations, dog lovers clubs or individuals;
- A dog breed is the result of animal domestication by humans. By working on a breed, a person can change it in the desired direction.
There are about 400 dog breeds on the globe. The number of animals within the breed is very diverse. There are breeds with a huge number of dogs distributed throughout the world, for example, German shepherds, Yorkshire terriers, and Chihuahuas. There are breeds that can number several dozen individuals, or dogs that are popular only in a certain area. Thus, Tibetan mastiffs are rarely seen on the streets or as a pet for acquaintances or friends. These animals guard monasteries in Tibet. And the Portuguese Water Dog is rarely seen even in Portugal. At the beginning of the last century, this breed was even on the verge of extinction, but thanks to the enthusiasm of one Portuguese businessman, a breeding program began.
What is a native dog breed?
An important condition for identifying a breed is its recognition by any canine service or dog lovers club. But there are groups of dogs for which no targeted breeding work has been carried out. These are the so-called natural, aboriginal dog breeds.
The appearance of their specific characteristics of exterior and behavior became possible due to the action of specific environmental conditions that influence them over a long period of time. The difference between these breeds is that they are not officially registered and documented, and are identified only by external signs and functions. Some native breeds have been recognized by canine organizations over time. This is what happened with the Alabai breed: it ceased to be aboriginal when it was recognized by cynologists as the “Central Asian Shepherd Dog”. This is one of the most ancient breeds that arose as a result of unconscious natural selection of folk selection. Alabai dogs appeared 4 thousand years ago and served to protect livestock and houses.
What distinguishes native dog breeds?
- some experts note in similar breeds the absence of such traits as adaptation to urban conditions and sexual dimorphism (external anatomical differences between males and females);
- the greatest genetic diversity and minimal corruption by human intervention is an advantage over selective breeds. The loss of genetic diversity has played a cruel joke on breeds that have been subjected to strong selection. Hereditary diseases and defects at the genetic level are one of their recognized problems.
