8 Wrinkly Dog Breeds With Seriously Cute Creases

• Size: Extra large 
• Lifespan: 7–9 years 
• Temperament: Affectionate, confident, clumsy

Bullmastiff dogs are some of the largest wrinkly dogs, often tipping the scales at 100 pounds or more. But don’t let their size intimidate you: This big dog breed is known for being devoted to their families and often leans into their owners  as an expression of affection (and a not-so-subtle request to be petted).  

Bullmastiffs have loose skin around their face and neck. When a Bullmastiff is particularly interested or alert to their surroundings, the folds of skin pull tighter, and the dog’s wrinkles become especially noticeable. 

• Size: Extra large 
• Lifespan: 5–8 years 
• Temperament: Loyal, quiet, independent 

A Dogue de Bordeaux is massive in size with a heavy, wrinkled face that looks serious most of the time. Despite looking like they mean business, they’re known for being big softies who crave being close to their favorite people.  

Since they weigh over 100 pounds, clear some space on the couch or invest in a super comfy (and extra large!) dog bed. And fair warning: The heavy jowls on this wrinkly dog mean you’ll be cleaning up drool on the regular.  

• Size: Medium 
• Lifespan: 8–10 years 
• Temperament: Charming, cuddly, silly 

The English Bulldog might be the most recognizable dog with wrinkles. The breed’s stocky build and flat face give them a distinct appearance.  

And while it’s easy to be charmed by a Bulldog’s cute pout, it’s also important to keep those deep folds of skin clean and dry to prevent infection.  

Bulldogs are a great match for indoorsy pet parents. Because they are a brachycephalic breed, Bulldogs can overheat easily when the temperature rises. Their stocky build doesn’t bode well for athletic outings, either—although they will enjoy a leisurely walk around the block when the weather is pleasant.  

• Size: Large 
• Life expectancy: 10–12 years 
• Temperament: Determined, independent, energetic 

Long ears, puppy dog eyes, and loose folds of skin give the Bloodhound a soulful expression. Those wrinkles also contribute to the breed’s stellar scent-tracking skills since the folds of skin on the face and neck trap odor particles and help the dog stay on the right trail.  

Although these wrinkly dogs have a somber appearance, the breed has an energetic and goofy demeanor. They enjoy outdoor adventures but shouldn’t be trusted off leash since an enticing smell can override their recall skills. 

• Size: Medium 
• Lifespan: 12–13 years 
• Temperament: Daydreamer, mellow, smart 

Basset Hounds are one of the most laid-back dog breeds. These gentle hounds have droopy ears, a wrinkled face, loose jowls (be prepared for drool), and a mellow demeanor. A Basset’s skin folds and droopy eyes can create a sad-looking expression, but these dogs are good-natured and adaptable.  

The easygoing Basset Hound doesn’t get excited about much—but a good, strong scent will easily captivate their attention. Scent work is an enriching and mentally stimulating activity for this breed, so plan on regular scent walks or hide-and-seek games that challenge your dog’s sniffer (and come with a reward for finding you).

• Size: Small  
• Life expectancy: 13–15 years 
• Temperament: BFF, friendly, optimistic 

Pugs are outgoing, silly, and charming—basically, the class clown of wrinkly dog breeds. They are sociable dogs who thrive on companionship and make new friends easily when properly socialized.  

These compact companions have a flat face full of wrinkles, big round eyes, and a coiled tail. Like other flat-faced, wrinkly dogs, be sure to keep a Pug’s facial folds clean to prevent skin infections. They also don’t tolerate very hot or cold weather, so play indoor games when the weather isn’t favorable. 

• Size: Extra large 
• Life Expectancy: 7–9 years 
• Temperament: Loving, chill, gentle 

One of the biggest and most wrinkly dogs is the Neapolitan Mastiff. These giants can weigh up to 150 pounds and are covered in loose folds of skin, with especially heavy wrinkles around the face and neck. Keep those wrinkles clean with a medicated wipe and give your Mastiff a bath every six weeks or so. 

Historically bred as guardians, Neapolitan Mastiffs are alert and watchful. But with their pet parents, these dogs want to be close at all times. With that in mind, make room for a supersize cuddle buddy if you pick this wrinkly dog breed.  

• Size: Medium 
• Life Expectancy: 8–12 years 
• Temperament: Aloof, introverted, serene 

As puppies, Shar-Pei are covered in head-to-toe wrinkles. Over time, those loose folds of skin stretch to cover the dog’s growing body. But even as adults, Shar-Pei are easily recognized by their abundant wrinkles, especially around the face, neck, and shoulders.  

All those wrinkles are covered in fur that usually isn’t as soft as it looks. The name Shar-Pei translates to “sand skin,” according to the Chinese Shar-Pei Club of America. Their coats aren’t actually abrasive like sandpaper, but rougher and shorter rather than plush and silky. 

The Neapolitan Mastiff has a heavily wrinkled face with loose skin that folds around the dog’s neck, shoulders, elbows, and down the body. This characteristically wrinkled appearance makes this dog the breed with the most wrinkles. The Shar-Pei is another, but they’re wrinklier as puppies. As they grow into adults, their wrinkles become mostly limited to the face and neck.  

“Dogs with wrinkles exist due to genetic mutations and selective breeding by people to develop breeds with certain characteristics,” says Brian Collins, DVM, a veterinarian at the Cornell Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center in Ithaca, New York. He points out that the wrinkles were historically desirable for specific benefits such as protection while working or scent tracking.  

The Pug is the only small dog breed with wrinkles. Popular companion dogs who weigh less than 20 pounds, Pugs are known for having a quizzical expression on their wrinkled face—but they probably just want to know if it’s time for cuddles, treats, or a game!   

For a dog with wrinkly skin, it’s important to keep their folds clean and dry. “I always emphasize to pet parents that wrinkles themselves aren’t the problem—it’s what gets trapped inside them,” says Dr. Erin Koballa of Charlotte Companion Animal Hospital. To prevent issues with irritation and infection, Dr. Koballa recommends cleaning your dog’s skin folds like this: 

1. Gently separate the folds to check for trapped debris, moisture, redness, or irritation. 
2. Use a soft, damp cloth or, ideally, a medicated wipe to clean between the folds. “I prefer wipes that include an antiseptic, such as chlorhexidine, and an antifungal, such as miconazole,” says Dr. Koballa. 
3. Dry thoroughly. Moisture trapped between skin folds is one of the biggest contributors to skin-fold dermatitis. 
4. Avoid harsh soaps, fragrances, alcohol-based products, or anything that could further irritate the skin. 
5. Redness, odor, discharge, or discomfort requires a trip to the vet. These could be signs of an infection.  

Wrinkly dogs will need more frequent bathing compared to other dog breeds. The frequency will vary based on your dog, but most wrinkly dogs need a bath every one to four weeks.  

Wrinkles around the eyes and muzzle will need particular attention [during a bath], due to the accumulation of tears and saliva that can lead to dermatitis,” says Dr. Collins. He adds that your veterinarian may also prescribe specific shampoos, wipes, or mousses to be used when grooming your wrinkly dog.