10 Weird Dogs That Are Lovable in All Shapes and Sizes

The Norwegian Lundehund has six toes on each paw. That extra grip helped it climb cliffs to hunt puffins.

Its neck bends backward until its head touches its spine, and its ears can close like trapdoors. These traits evolved from its life on steep, rocky Norwegian islands.

At first glance, this pup looks like a lamb. The Bedlington Terrier has a curly, woolly coat and a narrow head, but don’t be fooled. It’s full of energy and was originally bred to chase vermin.

Despite the prim appearance, this terrier is fast, muscular and a great choice for active dog owners.

This mostly hairless breed is instantly recognizable. The Chinese Crested Dog often has tufts of hair only on its head, feet and tail.

It comes in two types: Hairless and Powderpuff. Both crave affection and make good companions, but they need regular bathing to keep their skin healthy.

Imagine walking a dog that looks like a mop. The Bergamasco Sheepdog’s coat naturally forms mats, or "flocks," which protected it in the Italian Alps.

This breed is smart and calm, making it a loyal and calm family companion.

The Peruvian Inca Orchid is another hairless standout. Its skin feels warm and soft, and it needs sunscreen when outdoors.

Prized by the Incas and AKC-eligible but not fully recognized by the American Kennel Club (the breed is eligible to compete in the Miscellaneous Class), this rare dog breed comes in several sizes and can be surprisingly affectionate.

Loose folds of skin and drooping jowls give the Neapolitan Mastiff a look all its own. These dogs were once used as guard dogs in southern Italy.

They stand tall, can weigh more than 150 lb (70 kg), and are known for protecting families with quiet strength.

The Brussels Griffon looks a bit like a grumpy old man in a tiny dog body. With a beard, round eyes and human-like expressions, this toy breed wins over dog lovers fast.

Don’t let its size fool you. It’s alert, lively and even a little bossy.

The Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo, is Mexico’s national dog. Hairless with smooth skin, the breed has roots going back thousands of years.

Xolos were seen as spiritual protectors and often appear in Aztec art. Today, they’re calm and loyal, making them great for people with allergies.

The Catahoula Leopard Dog wears a speckled coat that’s as wild as its name. Originally bred for herding and hunting in Louisiana, this breed is known for its glassy, multicolored eyes. Catahoulas are energetic, smart and thrive with lots of exercise and training.

The Thai Ridgeback sports a line of hair down its spine that grows in the opposite direction. That ridge gives it a mohawk-like look.

This breed is independent and wary of strangers but loyal to its family. It’s still rare outside Thailand but gaining fans worldwide.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.