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There’s something irresistibly adorable about dogs with wrinkly faces and bodies. Whether it’s the saggy jowls of a Bloodhound or the furrowed brow of a Frenchie, these pups wear their folds like badges of honor.
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From deep face folds to full-body rolls, these are the most wrinkly dog breeds that stand out for their unique looks and undeniable charm.
14 Most Wrinkly Dog Breeds
These breeds pack lovable rolls, squishy faces, and more personality per wrinkle than you ever thought possible. All those skin creases aren’t just for show — they often come with quirky traits and unique care needs.
1. Shar-Pei
If you’re into really wrinkly dogs, you’re in for a treat with the Shar-Pei. These pups are known for their deeply folded skin, especially as puppies. That teddy-bear-meets-elephant look is paired with a calm, loyal personality.
But don’t be fooled, they’ve got a strong will under all those rolls. They’re moderately adaptable but can be aloof with strangers and stubborn during training, so early socialization is key.
- Wrinkliness: 10/10 – The ultimate dog with rolls.
- Size: Medium – Stocky and solid, like a plush tank.
- Personality: Calm, independent, and a little stubborn.
- Why You’ll Love Them: Their ancient look and dignified vibe make them one-of-a-kind.
2. English Bulldog
English Bulldogs are poster pups for dogs with wrinkly faces. Their signature smooshy snout and droopy skin give them a lovable, grumpy charm. These low-riders are gentle, affectionate, and total homebodies. Bulldogs thrive in apartment settings and love predictable routines, but they don’t handle heat well and aren’t built for high activity.
- Wrinkliness: 8/10 – Chunky and charming with deep folds.
- Size: Medium – Low to the ground but built like a bowling ball.
- Personality: Sweet, lazy, and a bit goofy.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They’re low-energy lapdogs with tons of character.
3. Bloodhound
One of the most iconic really wrinkly dogs, the Bloodhound has it all — loose skin, long ears, and droopy eyes. These wrinkles help them trap scents, but they also give them a perpetual look of concern that’s 100% adorable. They’re independent and love the outdoors, so they need space and exercise, but they can also be total sweethearts at home.
- Wrinkliness: 9/10 – Wrinkled from nose to neck.
- Size: Large – Long, lanky, and built for tracking.
- Personality: Gentle, determined, and super-sniffy.
- Why You’ll Love Them: Their nose is legendary, but so is their soulful stare.
4. Pug
Compact and full of charm, Pugs are small dogs with wrinkly faces and big personalities. Their forehead folds add to their cartoon-like expressions, and their playful spirit makes them total crowd-pleasers.
Pugs adapt well to apartment life, love being part of the action, and are low-maintenance in the exercise department, but keep an eye on their breathing in hot weather.
- Wrinkliness: 7/10 – A squishy little snort machine.
- Size: Small – Fun-sized with a big presence.
- Personality: Spirited, silly, and loving.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They’re the comedians of the dog world.
5. Bullmastiff
With serious expressions and heavy jowls, Bullmastiffs exude quiet confidence. They’re affectionate with family but reserved with strangers, making them excellent guard dogs. Despite their size, they’re surprisingly laid-back indoors and adapt well to calmer households, but don’t expect them to be overly energetic or eager to please.
- Wrinkliness: 6/10 – Understated but unmistakable.
- Size: Giant – A big softy in a bodyguard’s frame.
- Personality: Protective, calm, and devoted.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They’re massive cuddle buddies with mellow vibes.
6. Basset Hound
This low-slung hound is a classic among really wrinkly dogs. Their expressive eyes and floppy skin contribute to their lovable, laid-back appearance. Basset Hounds are gentle, friendly, and surprisingly stubborn when it comes to training. They adapt well to families and slower-paced lifestyles but need regular sniffing adventures to stay mentally stimulated.
- Wrinkliness: 8/10 – Drama in every wrinkle.
- Size: Medium – Low and long, like a furry footstool.
- Personality: Laid-back, loyal, and nose-driven.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They’re charmingly slow, sweet, and smell-driven.
7. French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are the darlings of city life. With their scrunched snouts and compact bodies, they’re among the most popular dogs with wrinkly faces. In fact, Frenchies are the most popular dog breed of them all in the U.S.
They’re affectionate, silly, and love being around people. Frenchies thrive in apartments, need minimal exercise, and make excellent companions, but their stubborn streak can challenge training.
- Wrinkliness: 6/10 – Short and scrunchy.
- Size: Small – Compact, portable, and apartment-approved.
- Personality: Playful, quirky, and affectionate.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They’re city-sized snuggle machines with style.
8. Pekingese
Fluffy and regal, the Pekingese hides its wrinkles under a luxurious coat. Once bred for royalty, they’re dignified, loyal lapdogs with a big sense of self-importance. They adapt well to calm households, especially with adults, and prefer to be admired rather than over-handled. Great for quieter lifestyles.
- Wrinkliness: 5/10 – Secretly squishy.
- Size: Small – Royal lapdog dimensions.
- Personality: Proud, loyal, and a little stubborn.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They’re fluffy little rulers with a regal attitude.
9. Neapolitan Mastiff
The Neapolitan Mastiff is a walking pile of skin folds with a heart of gold. These gentle giants are protective and loyal to their families, but need early training due to their size. They’re better suited to larger homes with space to stretch out and love a calm, structured lifestyle.
- Wrinkliness: 10/10 – Folds on folds.
- Size: Giant – Like a living pile of blankets.
- Personality: Protective, calm, and affectionate.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They look like mythical beasts but love like teddy bears.
10. Dogue de Bordeaux
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a muscular, wrinkly French Mastiff with a serious pout and a soft soul. Loyal and even-tempered, they form deep bonds with their people and thrive in calm households. They’re surprisingly sensitive for their size and adapt better to homes with experience managing large breeds.
- Wrinkliness: 8/10 – Big face, big folds.
- Size: Large – Broad, brawny, and unmistakable.
- Personality: Steady, affectionate, and courageous.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They’re heart-melting softies in muscle suits.
11. Chow Chow
The Chow Chow is an independent thinker with a lion-like mane and a hidden wrinkly face. While not as openly affectionate as some breeds, they’re intensely loyal and thrive with confident, experienced owners. They do best in homes where they can strut with dignity and not be poked or prodded too much.
- Wrinkliness: 6/10 – Hidden under all that floof.
- Size: Medium to Large – Sturdy lion-dog status.
- Personality: Dignified, aloof, and independent.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They’re fluffy enigmas with fierce loyalty.
12. Puggle
Puggles combine the curiosity of a Beagle with the expressiveness of a Pug. They’re playful, affectionate, and get along with just about everyone, including other pets. Puggles are easygoing and adapt well to most households, but they love to bark and follow their nose.
- Wrinkliness: 6/10 – Petite with personality-packed folds.
- Size: Small – Easy to scoop up and snuggle.
- Personality: Playful, curious, and outgoing.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They’re energetic charmers with expressive eyes.
13. Chug
This Chihuahua-Pug mix is tiny, wrinkly, and full of spunk. Chugs are fearless, affectionate, and can be either lapdogs or little dynamos, depending on their mood. They do well in apartments but can be barky and opinionated — think considerable dog energy in a burrito-sized body.
- Wrinkliness: 5/10 – Small face, big drama.
- Size: Small – Pocket-sized sass with a wrinkled twist.
- Personality: Bold, loving, and confident.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They’re tiny, talkative, and full of spunk.
14. Pugapoo
A Pugapoo brings the best of two worlds: Puggy wrinkles and Poodle smarts. They’re outgoing, affectionate, and can be surprisingly athletic. Their adaptability makes them ideal for apartment dwellers or families, although grooming needs vary depending on the coat type.
- Wrinkliness: 4/10 – Curly meets crinkly.
- Size: Small to Medium – Depends on the poodle parent.
- Personality: Friendly, intelligent, and playful.
- Why You’ll Love Them: They’re wrinkle-lite with a curly twist.
Which Wrinkly Dog Breed Is Right For You?
Sure, they’re all adorable. But not every wrinkly pup is the same.
Some are snuggly loafs made for Netflix nights. Others are bold, opinionated watchdogs in disguise. Use this quick guide to find your perfect wrinkle match based on your lifestyle.
Best For Families With Kids
These dogs with rolls are known for being gentle, patient, and down to clown with the whole crew.
- English Bulldog – Sweet, sturdy, and famously tolerant
- Pug – Goofy, lovable, and thrives on attention from all ages
- Bullmastiff – Big protector with a soft heart for family
- French Bulldog – Clownish, affectionate, and good with gentle kids
- Puggle – Playful and easygoing with everyone in the house
Best For Apartment Living
Low energy and compact bodies make them perfect for small spaces.
- Pug – Couch potato with charm
- French Bulldog – Quiet, compact, and requires minimal exercise
- Pekingese – Low-key royalty who doesn’t need much space
- Chug – Small, alert, and loves cozy indoor life
- Pugapoo – Small, low-shedding, and adaptable
Easiest To Train
Not all wrinkly breeds are stubborn! These pups are more likely to follow your lead.
- Bullmastiff – Calm and responsive with early training
- Pug – Food-motivated and eager to please
- Puggle – Smart, social, and quick to learn basic commands
- Pugapoo – Often inherits poodle smarts for easy training
- French Bulldog – Can be stubborn but highly food-driven
Most Cuddly Couch Potatoes
If your favorite activity is doing nothing with your furry friend, these are the dogs for you.
- English Bulldog – The king of naps and head tilts
- Basset Hound – Chill, snuggly, and down to hang for hours
- French Bulldog – Compact cuddle buddy with a warm belly
- Pekingese – Royal lap dog energy, made for blankets
Best For Big Adventures
Looking for a wrinkly pup who’s more about trails than couch time? These breeds bring stamina, curiosity, and a bold personality to keep up with your adventures.
- Bloodhound – Built to track for miles, loves hikes, and sniffing everything
- Shar-Pei – Independent and confident, great for exploring new terrain
- Puggle – High energy, alert, and always ready for a walk (or five)
- Bullmastiff – Surprisingly agile for their size, and they love structured activity
- Neapolitan Mastiff – Big and bold, they enjoy short adventures with their humans (just watch the heat)
Big Dogs With Big Wrinkles
Love your dogs XL with XXL folds? These are your majestic giants.
- Neapolitan Mastiff – Wrinkled from head to tail, truly mythical
- Dogue de Bordeaux – Muscle + jowls + loyalty
- Bullmastiff – Quiet guardian with expressive wrinkles
- Bloodhound – Long, lean, and famously droopy
- Shar-Pei – Medium-sized but maxed out on wrinkles
Big Personality, Compact Package
Small wrinkly dogs with major main-character energy.
- Pug – Bold, funny, dramatic, and totally lovable
- Chug – Chihuahua + Pug = sass and smush
- Puggle – Spirited, curious, and always ready for fun
- French Bulldog – Snorty, quirky, and never boring
- Pekingese – Fluffy diva with strong opinions
Wrinkly Breeds Have Special Skincare Needs
All those adorable wrinkles and squishy folds? They’re cute, but they come with a little extra responsibility. Dogs with rolls are more prone to skin problems, particularly skin fold dermatitis, because those deep creases can trap moisture, dirt, food particles, and bacteria.
Without regular care, this can lead to irritation, rashes, skin infections, and the dreaded “stinky face” syndrome. The good news? With a simple skincare routine, you can keep your pup’s folds fresh, clean, and healthy.
Why wrinkle care matters:
- Moisture and warmth between folds create the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.
- Wrinkle infections can be painful and lead to raw skin, hot spots, scabbing, or even abscesses.
- Some breeds, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Shar-Peis, are especially sensitive and require daily grooming to stay comfortable.
5 Wrinkle Care Tips
- Wipe between folds daily (or as needed) using gentle, pet-safe wipes. Focus on the face, neck, tail pocket, and any other areas where skin overlaps.
- Keep wrinkles dry. After baths, rainy walks, or heavy drooling, always pat folds dry with a clean, soft cloth.
- Apply a wrinkle balm or protective ointment (vet-approved only) to soothe skin and prevent chafing or inflammation. Natural Dog Company Wrinkle Balm is a top choice.
- Check for warning signs, such as redness, swelling, a sour smell, or excessive scratching — these could be signs of infection.
- Trim surrounding hair if it traps moisture or dirt, especially in breeds with thick or curly coats.
Bonus tip: If your dog resists wrinkle cleaning, turn it into a routine with treats, praise, or a calming wipe-down after walks or mealtimes. A few seconds a day can make a big difference.
What Causes Wrinkles In Dogs?
Wrinkles aren’t just for style—they have history and function, too. In many breeds, wrinkles evolved for practical reasons.
- Shar-Peis utilized their loose skin in ancient dog fighting, allowing them to wriggle out of holds.
- Bloodhounds have facial folds that trap scent particles, enhancing their tracking skills.
- Mastiffs and Bulldogs developed folds to channel blood away from their eyes during bull-baiting (long ago, thankfully).
- Basset Hounds have droopy skin and long ears that work together to collect and trap scent as they track, enhancing their ability to follow a trail.
- Chow Chows, while not as deeply wrinkled as others, have loose facial folds that may have helped them tolerate cold weather by reducing heat loss around the face.
Today, wrinkles are mostly about looks and breed standards, but in some cases, they’re still tied to each dog’s unique history and purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about rolls, wrinkles, and squishy-faced pups? You’re not alone. Here are some of the most common questions people ask before bringing home a wrinkly companion. If you don’t see yours here, ask us in our comments.
Are Wrinkly Dogs More Prone To Health Problems?
Yes, especially skin-related issues. Their folds can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria, which can lead to infections if not properly cleaned and maintained. Brachycephalic breeds (like Pugs, French Bulldogs, and English Bulldogs) may also have breathing issues due to their skull structure and short snouts.
Do Wrinkly Dogs Smell Bad?
They can if their skin folds aren’t kept clean and dry. Regular wiping and wrinkle care can prevent the “stinky face” smell that some owners notice. A healthy diet and proper grooming also help reduce odor.
Are Wrinkly Dogs Hypoallergenic?
No. Most wrinkly breeds are not hypoallergenic because they shed, drool, or produce dander that can trigger allergies. Even Poodle mixes, such as the Pugapoo, may still cause reactions, depending on the individual dog.
Where Can I Find A Wrinkly Dog?
You can find wrinkly dog breeds through reputable breeders, breed-specific rescue organizations, or local animal shelters. If you’re set on a specific breed like a Shar-Pei or Bulldog, look for breeders who health-test and prioritize skin, eye, and breathing health.
Want to adopt? Search rescue groups focused on wrinkly breeds (like Bulldog or Mastiff rescues), or check Petfinder and Adopt-a-Pet for mixed-breed wrinkly wonders near you.
What Should I Feed A Wrinkly Dog?
A high-quality, balanced diet that supports skin and coat health is key. Look for dog food rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and limited allergens. See our reviews of the best fresh dog meals and all-natural dog food. Always consult your vet before switching your pup’s diet.
Wrinkles Are Cute — But Vet Bills Aren’t
Whether you’re bringing home a squishy-faced Pug or a roll-covered Shar-Pei, one thing’s for sure: wrinkly dogs require a little extra care. From skin infections and breathing issues to unexpected accidents or chronic health problems, these (and all) breeds are prone to certain health concerns, which can result in expensive veterinary care.
That’s why pet insurance is worth considering early on. Some policies may help cover the cost of unexpected diagnostic testing and treatments, as well as medications and veterinary appointment fees. Think of it as peace of mind so you can focus on your pup’s well-being, not the cost.
