- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Who doesn’t love a pup with a cuddly, wrinkly body to hug? These dogs aren’t afraid to let their wrinkles shine (perhaps humans could take some hints in that department.) We’re more than happy to love and appreciate them just the way they are.
Wrinkly Dog Care
Whether these dogs only sport wrinkly faces or have a little extra skin all over, their scrunchy skin needs special care. Vets note that these dogs should be washed with a mild shampoo and that folds of skin should be cleaned and dried gently.
With regular care and a nourishing diet, a wrinkly dog’s skin will stay in great shape.
9 Wonderful Wrinkly Dog Breeds
Wondering exactly which breeds are known for their spectacular, stretchy skin? Look no further, as we’ve compiled a list of our favorite rumpled canines.
1. Pug
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This breed has been around since 400 BC, in fact. Not only have they been adorable for a very long time, they’ve also been favored family companions throughout history. They’re also gentle, sweet and playful, as well as extremely food-motivated.
2. Bullmastiff
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These wrinkly friends are generally gentle giants. Though they’ve often been used as guard dogs (that size is sure to deter intruders!), they’re also great with families with children. Just prepare yourself to wipe plenty of drool from that floppy face.
3. Bulldog
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These little couch potatoes are adorably cuddly (and so soft!), and they don’t need quite as much exercise as other breeds, making them great for city-dwellers.
4. Chinese Shar-Pei
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Those incredible Shar-Pei rolls tend to make these pups look a little sad, but don’t worry—it’s not in their nature. They do need plenty of supportive, thorough training since they’re very intelligent, but can also be stubborn and standoffish. Not all Shar-Peis sport wrinkly skin, though it’s a common trait due to a certain genetic variation. Research into the origin of Shar-Pei wrinkles has led to some interesting insight into dog genetics more broadly, in fact.
5. Dogue de Bordeaux
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Mostly known for starring alongside Tom Hanks in Turner and Hooch, this willful breed needs training and socialization early on. But regardless, you’ll find it hard to resist their big-eyed stare, beautiful coloring and soft, cuddle-perfect rolls.
6. Bloodhound
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Friendly and fun, this breed boasts loose, floppy jowls and soft fur that they would love you to pet. Completely obsessed with following scents, this dog is easygoing—except when its nose has caught on to something good. They can weigh up to 110 pounds, but are known to be docile.
7. Basset Hound
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Smaller than the bloodhound, this wonderfully wrinkled breed also has an incredible talent for following its nose. Loyal and sweet, the only drawback may be their tendency to get a little vocal—that howl is legendary.
8. Neapolitan Mastiff
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With plenty of hanging wrinkles and folds, this giant fella truly knows how to make an impression. Though intimidating enough to be a guard dog, they are actually very loving and crave companionship—so never leave this breed outside all day. Also, you may want to have a towel on hand since these huge canines produce a ton of drool.
9. Pekingese
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These stubborn little guys have a deep wrinkle on their face (maybe it’s where they hide their superpowers?) and tend to thrive in households without small children. One-person-dogs, they rely on their special human to keep them cool in hot weather since they tend to get super hot. Oh, and to keep their locks looking luscious, of course.
