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17 Prettiest Dog Breeds In The World

By: Arlene Divina
Arlene Divina, one of the content writers at IHD, loves going on adventures with her adorable fur baby. She now creates informative content for pet parents. Read more
| October 24, 2024

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Beauty is often in the eye of the beholder regarding dog breeds, but some undeniably stunning dogs capture attention wherever they go. From flowing coats to striking eyes, certain dog breeds are known for their beauty, charm, and personality. These dogs are not just pretty faces; they also have unique characteristics that set them apart. Whether it’s a sleek, elegant build or a luxurious coat that demands attention, these dogs stand out as some of the prettiest in the world.

Afghan Hound

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The Afghan Hound is the definition of elegance, with its long, silky coat and regal posture. Originating from the mountainous regions of Afghanistan, this breed was developed for hunting, and its beauty is matched only by its athleticism. Afghan Hounds have a unique, dignified appearance with their long, flowing hair, which gives them an almost aristocratic look. Their aloof but gentle personality adds to their charm, making them one of the prettiest dog breeds and one of the most graceful. Afghan Hounds can be independent and somewhat reserved despite their appearance, making them a sophisticated addition to any home.

Samoyed

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Known for their beautiful, fluffy white coats and perpetually smiling faces, Samoyeds are among the most strikingly pretty breeds. These dogs were originally bred for herding and pulling sleds in the freezing temperatures of Siberia, which explains their thick, luxurious fur. Their bright, expressive eyes and friendly “Sammy smile” make them instantly lovable. Samoyeds are beautiful and incredibly friendly, making them perfect companions for families. Their gorgeous coat does require regular grooming, but their beauty and joyful personality make it well worth the effort.

Siberian Husky

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Siberian Huskies are known for their stunning, wolf-like appearance and piercing blue or multicoloured eyes. Their striking coats, which can be black, grey, or even reddish, paired with their athletic build, make them one of the prettiest and most recognizable breeds. Huskies were bred for endurance and cold climates, so their thick double coat is so prominent. Their energetic and playful nature matches their beauty, making them great companions for active individuals. While they may look like they belong in the wild, Huskies are incredibly affectionate with their families.

Poodle

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Poodles are not only known for their intelligence but also for their stylish, curly coats that can be groomed into various impressive shapes. This breed is undeniably pretty, whether it’s a Toy, Miniature, or Standard Poodle. Their hypoallergenic coats are not only beautiful but practical for those with allergies. Poodles are often seen as a symbol of elegance, and their appearance can be tailored to match their owners’ preferences, from show cuts to more practical styles. Beyond their stunning looks, Poodles are incredibly smart and easy to train, making them one of the most well-rounded breeds in both beauty and brains.

Golden Retriever

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The Golden Retriever is one of the most beloved dog breeds, not only for its friendly, outgoing personality but also for its beautiful golden coat. Their long, flowing fur ranges from light cream to dark golden, and it shines in the sunlight, adding to their allure. Golden Retrievers have a kind, expressive face and gentle eyes that are hard to resist. Their beauty is natural and effortless, making them a favorite in both the show ring and as family pets. Golden Retrievers are also known for their loyalty and intelligence, enhancing their appeal as one of the prettiest and most popular breeds.

Irish Setter

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With their rich, mahogany red coats and graceful build, Irish Setters are undeniably one of the prettiest breeds in the dog world. Their long, flowing fur and elegant gait give them a regal appearance, while their playful, friendly nature makes them wonderful companions. Irish Setters were originally bred as hunting dogs, and their athleticism and stamina match their beauty. Their coats require regular grooming to maintain their silky sheen, but their stunning appearance makes it worthwhile. Irish Setters are known for being affectionate and energetic, which makes them a perfect mix of beauty and fun.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

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Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small, elegant dogs known for their big, soulful eyes and soft, flowing coats. Their pretty, expressive faces and delicate features make them irresistible to many dog lovers. Cavaliers come in various colors, including Blenheim, tricolor, and ruby, and their gentle, affectionate nature only adds to their charm. They were bred to be companion dogs for royalty, and their regal appearance certainly reflects that. While they may be small, their beauty and personality make them stand out, and their affectionate nature ensures they’re always by your side.

Shiba Inu

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The Shiba Inu, a native of Japan, is known for its fox-like appearance and beautiful, fluffy coat. With their curled tails and confident stance, Shiba Inus are often considered one of the prettiest dog breeds. Their coats come in various shades, including red, sesame, and black-and-tan, and their thick double coat adds to their striking look. Shibas are independent dogs with a strong sense of self, and their beauty is often paired with a spirited and bold personality. Their tidy appearance and clean habits make them even more appealing to those looking for a stunning yet low-maintenance pet.

Papillon

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With its butterfly-like ears and elegant appearance, the Papillon is one of the most unique and pretty toy breeds. Their name, which means “butterfly” in French, refers to their distinctive, fringed ears resembling a butterfly’s wings. Papillons are small, but their long, silky coats and bright, expressive eyes make them stand out. They come in various color combinations, with white as the base color. Despite their small size, Papillons are energetic and love to play, making them not only pretty but also fun and lively companions.

Chow Chow

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Chow Chows are instantly recognizable by their lion-like mane and deep-set, soulful eyes. Their thick double coat comes in several colors, including red, black, and cream, and their blue-black tongue adds to their exotic appeal. Chow Chows have a regal, almost aloof demeanor, which, combined with their stunning appearance, gives them a distinctive charm. These dogs are known for their independent nature, but they are also fiercely loyal to their families. Their beauty, combined with strength and fluff, makes them one of the world’s prettiest and most interesting breeds.

Pomeranian

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Pomeranians may be small, but they have big personalities and even bigger coats. Their thick, fluffy fur and foxy faces make them one of the prettiest toy breeds around. Pomeranians come in various colors, from vibrant oranges to cool blues and even merles. Their luxurious coat requires regular grooming to maintain its fullness, but their cute, confident demeanor makes it all worthwhile. Pomeranians are known for their energetic and curious nature, making them perfect companions for those who want a dog as lively as beautiful.

Shetland Sheepdog

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Shetland Sheepdogs, or Shelties, are often mistaken for miniature Collies, but they have their own unique beauty. Their long, flowing coats and expressive faces make them one of the most attractive herding breeds. Shelties come in various colors, including sable, black, and blue merle, and their coats are thick and luxurious. They are known for their intelligence and agility, but their beauty often steals the show. While they may require regular grooming to keep their coats looking their best, Shelties’ pretty appearance and sweet nature make them well worth the effort.

Great Dane

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Great Danes are known as the “gentle giants” of the dog world, and their beauty lies in their sleek, muscular build and regal demeanor. Despite their size, Great Danes move gracefully and elegantly, and their short coats, which come in various colors, are easy to maintain. Their expressive faces and kind eyes add to their appeal, making them one of the prettiest large breeds. Great Danes are affectionate and loyal, often forming close bonds with their families, and their majestic appearance only enhances their loving nature.

Bernese Mountain Dog

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Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, fluffy, and incredibly beautiful. Their striking tricolor coat of black, white, and rust, combined with their gentle expressions, makes them one of the prettiest working breeds. Born to work on farms in Switzerland, Bernese Mountain Dogs are strong and capable, but their calm and loving nature makes them wonderful family pets. Their long coats do require regular grooming, but their beauty and affectionate personalities make it worth the extra effort. Bernese Mountain Dogs are perfect for those who want a large, beautiful dog with a sweet and gentle disposition.

American Eskimo Dog

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The American Eskimo Dog, with its fluffy white coat and bright eyes, is one of the prettiest and most cheerful breeds. These dogs, often called “Eskies,” look strikingly with their dense, snow-white fur and fox-like faces. They come in three sizes—Toy, Miniature, and Standard—each as beautiful as the other. Eskies are known for their intelligence and playfulness, and their friendly personalities make them a family favorite. Their luxurious coats do require regular maintenance, but their stunning looks and vibrant personalities make them worth every brush stroke.

Cocker Spaniel

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The Cocker Spaniel is renowned for its gorgeous, silky coat and sweet, expressive face. These dogs come in various colors, including black, brown, and parti-color, and their long ears and big eyes give them an irresistibly cute appearance. Originally bred for bird hunting, Cockers are now beloved for their beauty and affectionate nature. Their luxurious coat requires regular grooming to keep them looking their best, but their playful and loyal temperament makes them a joy to have around. Cocker Spaniels are a perfect blend of elegance and charm, making them one of the prettiest dog breeds.

Alaskan Malamute

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Alaskan Malamutes are powerful, majestic dogs with a strikingly beautiful appearance. Known for their thick, double coat and wolf-like features, Malamutes were bred to pull heavy sleds in harsh Arctic conditions. Their coats, which can come in shades of gray, black, sable, or red, give them a rugged yet stunning look. Despite their strength, Malamutes have a friendly and playful personality, making them wonderful companions. Their hardworking nature matches their beauty, and their thick fur and expressive eyes make them one of the world’s prettiest and most captivating dog breeds.

When Beauty Comes with Bark

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Dogs are beautiful, but these breeds stand out for their unique, show-stopping looks. Whether it’s the regal Afghan Hound or the fluffy Samoyed, these dogs are not just pretty—they’re personalities in fur. Their stunning coats, striking features, and graceful movements make them head-turners. Of course, their beauty comes with personalities that match, whether it’s the elegance of a Poodle or the charm of a Papillon. So, if you’re looking for a dog as beautiful as it is delightful, these breeds will surely win your heart (and a few beauty contests).