Dogs are known as man’s best friend for a reason, and with hundreds of different breeds to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Previously, we’ve introduced some of the best apartment dogs, lap dogs and bully breeds, and while every dog is special in their own way, some breeds truly make people stop and stare.
This article will be about 20 unique dog breeds that stand out for their appearance, personality or abilities, helping you decide which one might fit your lifestyle. While looks are definitely important when looking for your perfect pup, we believe that choosing the right breed starts with understanding personality and daily needs as well.
Key Takeaways
- Cool dog breeds stand out for their appearance, personality, work history, or rare traits, not just for being unusual.
- Choosing the right breed always depends on lifestyle, experience, and daily activity level, rather than popularity.
- Each breed in this list comes with specific needs, from exercise requirements to temperament, helping new owners make an informed choice.
What makes a dog breed cool?
There are so many different breeds out there, each with its own unique characteristics and features that make them stand out. One of the things that makes a dog breed cool is their physical appearance – some breeds have really unique coat patterns or colors, or interesting body shapes or facial features that just make them pop and catch your eye.
And then there’s personality – some breeds are super friendly and outgoing, while others are more stoic and reserved, but all of them have something special that makes them stand out. Plus, there are breeds that have been around for centuries and have really interesting histories and traditions, which are just so fascinating to learn about. There’s really something for everyone when it comes to dog breeds, and that’s what makes them so cool!
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What are the TOP 20 coolest dog breeds?
Choosing the right dog breed can be a difficult and overwhelming task. With so many breeds to choose from, it’s important to consider factors such as lifestyle, personality, and living situation before making a decision.
In the following sections, we will explore 20 different types of dogs available and highlight the key factors to consider when making your decision. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of what to look for in a dog and how to choose the breed that’s right for you!
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1. Basenji: a unique and ancient breed known for its lack of barking
Basenjis are a unique and ancient dog breed known for their lack of barking. They have a short, sleek coat that comes in various colors and a compact and muscular build. Basenjis are intelligent and independent, so they respond best to patient, consistent guidance rather than overly strict training methods.
They originated in Central Africa and were used for hunting and tracking. Basenjis do best in a calm environment with plenty of space to run and play. They thrive most with active owners who enjoy daily outdoor adventures.
Overall, this breed is best for experienced dog lovers who appreciate an independent, athletic companion that enjoys both mental and physical challenges.
Fun fact: this breed is often called the “barkless dog,” but they actually produce a yodel-like sound known as a “baroo.”
2. Samoyed: a fluffy and friendly breed with a smile that can light up any room
Samoyeds are medium-sized dogs known for their thick, fluffy white coats and their iconic “Sammy smile.” They are affectionate, social, and thrive on human companionship. Their gentle temperament makes them wonderful family dogs, but they also need regular engagement to stay happy and balanced.
This breed requires plenty of exercise, both physical and mental. Daily walks, outdoor play, and enrichment activities are essential. Samoyeds do best with active owners who enjoy spending time outdoors and can commit to regular grooming.
Overall, this breed is best for families or active individuals who want a friendly, people-loving companion with an upbeat personality.
Fun fact: Samoyeds’ famous smile wasn’t just bred for cuteness: it helped prevent their drool from freezing in harsh Arctic temperatures!
3. Shar Pei: a wrinkly and stoic breed that is fiercely loyal to their owners
Shar Peis are a medium-sized dog breed known for their distinctive wrinkled skin and loyal nature. Their unique appearance alone makes them one of the most visually striking and undeniably cool dog breeds. They are calm, thoughtful dogs who often form deep bonds with their families.
Shar Peis do best in a calm, structured environment with an experienced and patient owner who can provide consistent training and socialization. They aren’t overly energetic, but they appreciate steady routines and regular walks, along with clear boundaries that help them feel secure.
This breed is a great match for owners who want a loyal, protective companion with a unique, unforgettable look and a calm temperament.
Fun fact: Shar Peis were once so rare that in the 1970s they were listed in the Guinness World Records as the world’s rarest dog breed.
4. Saluki: a graceful and elegant breed that has been used for hunting for thousands of years
Salukis are a medium to large-sized breed known for their incredible grace, long silky coat, and elegant, athletic build. Their regal appearance makes them one of the coolest and most eye-catching ancient dog breeds. Despite their refined look, Salukis are fast, powerful, and deeply loyal to their families.
They are intelligent and independent, so they thrive with an experienced and patient owner who can provide steady training and proper socialization. Salukis need plenty of exercise, especially sprinting, to satisfy their natural hunting instincts. A calm, structured environment with space to stretch their legs suits them best.
This breed is ideal for active owners who appreciate a sensitive, elegant companion with both history and athleticism woven into their DNA.
Fun fact: Salukis are one of the oldest known dog breeds! Ancient Egyptian tombs depict them as royal companions thousands of years ago.
5. Alaskan Malamute: a powerful and majestic breed that is known for their work as sled dogs
Alaskan Malamutes are a large and powerful breed with a thick, fluffy coat and a striking, wolf-like appearance. Their impressive strength and majestic presence make them one of the coolest working breeds in the world. Originally bred for hauling heavy loads across harsh Arctic terrain, Malamutes are known for their endurance and strong work ethic.
They need an experienced, active owner who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Consistent training and a structured routine help them thrive, as they can be strong-willed and independent. A spacious home and regular outdoor activity (ideally in cooler climates) are essential for their happiness.
This breed suits owners who love outdoor adventures and want a loyal, hardworking companion with a gentle, family-friendly temperament.
Fun fact: Alaskan Malamutes were invaluable to early Arctic explorers and even helped transport supplies during the 1911 South Pole expedition.
6. Whippet: a sleek and speedy breed that is often used for racing
Whippets are a medium-sized breed known for their lean, aerodynamic build and incredible sprinting ability. Their gentle, sensitive nature combined with their striking, athletic appearance makes them one of the coolest low-maintenance companion breeds. With their short, smooth coat and elegant movement, they stand out without needing dramatic grooming.
Despite their racing background, Whippets are calm and affectionate at home. They enjoy soft beds, warm blankets, and spending time close to their families. They do best with regular exercise like short bursts of running, followed by long, relaxing naps. Their quiet temperament also makes them a great fit for apartments or calm households.
They are ideal for owners seeking a sweet, gentle, easy-to-live-with companion who enjoys both playtime and peaceful cuddles.
Fun fact: Whippets are sometimes called “the 35-mph couch potato” thanks to their lightning-fast speed and love of lounging.
7. Tibetan Mastiff: a massive and imposing breed that has been used as a guardian for centuries
Tibetan Mastiffs are a large, powerful breed known for their thick double coat and calm, dignified presence. Their impressive size and lion-like mane immediately set them apart, giving them one of the most striking looks among guardian breeds. They were originally bred to protect flocks and monasteries in the Himalayan region, which is why their protective instincts remain so strong today.
They are loyal, independent thinkers who form deep bonds with their families but remain reserved with strangers. Because of their natural guarding tendencies, they need consistent training, clear boundaries, and an experienced, patient owner who can provide structure without harsh discipline. They thrive in spacious, quiet homes where they can watch over their environment.
This breed is best suited for confident, experienced dog lovers who want an impressive, devoted protector with a calm, noble personality.
Fun fact: Tibetan Mastiffs are so independent that they often choose to patrol their territory at night. Historically, many worked as nocturnal guardians.
8. Australian Cattle Dog: a tough and energetic breed that is known for their herding skills
Australian Cattle Dogs, also known as Blue Heelers or Queensland Heelers, are a medium-sized, highly energetic breed with a short, dense coat that appears in blue or red speckled patterns. They are incredibly intelligent and were originally bred for herding cattle in Australia’s harsh conditions, which explains their agility and strong work drive.
They require an experienced and active owner who can provide plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and a structured environment. With clear expectations and steady training, they become extremely loyal companions who enjoy having a purpose.
They’re best suited for active owners who want a hardworking, athletic partner that thrives on daily challenges.
Fun fact: Their nickname “Heeler” comes from their habit of gently nipping at the heels of cattle to keep the herd moving.
9. Leonberger: a gentle giant breed that is known for its strength and loyalty
Leonbergers are a large, muscular breed with a thick, water-resistant coat that ranges from pale yellow to reddish-brown. They were originally developed in 19th-century Germany as family and estate dogs, which explains their calm confidence and impressive presence. Despite their size, they’re known for their gentle, affectionate temperament.
They need an experienced and active owner who can provide regular exercise, mental stimulation, and a structured home environment. With proper guidance and early socialization, Leonbergers become steady, reliable companions that bond deeply with their families.
This breed is ideal for owners who want a loyal, even-tempered “gentle giant” that enjoys outdoor adventures and close family life.
Fun fact: Leonbergers were bred to resemble a lion, even appearing on the city crest of Leonberg, Germany.
10. Bichon Frise: a fluffy and affectionate breed that is a favorite of many dog lovers
Bichon Frises are a small dog breed known for their fluffy white coat and cheerful, friendly personality. Originally bred in the Mediterranean as companion dogs, they quickly became favorites among sailors, nobles, and families for their charming appearance and happy demeanor. Their sociable nature makes them excellent with people of all ages.
They do best in a calm, structured environment with plenty of socialization, gentle guidance, and daily playtime. Because they’re highly people-oriented, they thrive in households where they get lots of attention and mental stimulation, making them great apartment dogs.
This breed is perfect for owners who want an affectionate, adaptable small dog that enjoys close companionship and a lively daily routine.
Fun fact: Bichon Frises were once popular circus dogs thanks to their intelligence and natural flair for performing tricks.
11. Poodle: a smart and elegant breed that comes in a variety of sizes and colors
Poodles are medium to large-sized dogs known for their curly, low-shedding coat and elegant appearance. Originally bred in Germany as water retrievers, they’re famous for their intelligence and quick learning abilities. Their alert, graceful nature makes them one of the most trainable breeds in the world.
They thrive in a calm, structured environment with plenty of exercise, socialization, and mental stimulation. Because they’re highly responsive and people-focused, they fit well with owners who enjoy interactive training and daily activities.
Poodles are ideal for dog lovers looking for a smart, affectionate companion that enjoys learning new things and staying mentally active.
Fun fact: Despite their stylish grooming reputation, Poodles were originally shaved in specific patterns to help them swim more efficiently while hunting waterfowl.
12. Dalmatian: a classic breed that is known for its distinctive spots and boundless energy
Dalmatians are medium to large-sized dogs recognized instantly by their unique black or liver spots on a white coat. Originally bred in Croatia as coach dogs, they’re energetic, athletic, and full of personality. Their lively nature makes them wonderful companions for active families.
They require a structured, active environment with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. Because of their high energy level and love of outdoor activities, they thrive with owners who enjoy running, hiking, or engaging in dog sports.
This breed is perfect for active dog owners who want a loyal, playful companion that loves adventure and staying on the move.
Fun fact: Dalmatians were historically used as “carriage dogs,” running alongside horse-drawn coaches to guard them, hence their natural affinity for horses.
13. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: a charming and loving breed that is popular for their sweet temperament
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are small companion dogs known for their long, silky coat and warm, affectionate nature. Originally bred in England as lap dogs, they’ve remained popular thanks to their gentle personality and friendly, people-oriented temperament. They adapt well to various households and get along beautifully with children and other pets.
They do best in a calm, structured environment where they receive plenty of attention and close companionship. Daily short walks, mental enrichment, and lots of cuddles help them thrive. Because they form strong bonds with their humans, they’re happiest with owners who spend plenty of time at home.
This breed is ideal for those seeking a soft-natured, loyal companion that brings calmness, warmth, and charm into everyday life.
Fun fact: These dogs were favorites of European royalty: King Charles II adored them so much that the breed was eventually named after him.
14. Border Terrier: a scrappy and loyal breed that is often used for hunting small game
Border Terriers are small, sturdy working dogs known for their wiry coat and lively, intelligent nature. They were originally bred in England for hunting small game and keeping pests under control, which explains their agility and determined attitude. Their affectionate and loyal personalities have also made them popular family pets.
These dogs thrive in an active and structured environment with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They bond deeply with their owners and are happiest when they can join outdoor adventures like hiking or long walks.
This breed suits owners who want an energetic, loyal companion that enjoys staying active and being involved in everyday life.
Fun fact: Border Terriers have intentionally narrow chests, allowing them to squeeze into fox dens while working.
15. Shetland Sheepdog: a loyal and intelligent breed that is often used for herding
Shetland Sheepdogs, or Shelties, are small to medium-sized herding dogs known for their thick, furry coat and gentle, affectionate nature. Originally bred in Scotland to herd sheep in the rugged Shetland Islands, they became popular for their intelligence, agility, and loyalty. Their expressive faces and soft temperament make them wonderful family companions.
Shelties require an active and structured environment with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are quick learners and respond well to consistent training, especially when it includes activities that challenge their sharp minds.
This breed is ideal for owners who want a highly trainable, loyal companion that enjoys both physical activity and close human bonding.
Fun fact: Shelties are famous for their “Sheltie spin”—a joyful, fast circle they perform when excited.
16. Afghan Hound: a regal and elegant breed that has been used for hunting for centuries
Afghan Hounds are a large and elegant breed known for their long, silky coat and independent personality. Originally bred in the mountains and deserts of Afghanistan, they were valued as hunting dogs capable of chasing game across harsh terrain. Their graceful movement and striking appearance have also made them popular in the show ring.
They need an experienced and patient owner who can provide calm, consistent training and plenty of exercise. Because of their independent nature, they may not always respond like typical obedience-focused breeds, but they thrive when their intelligence is engaged through varied activities.
This breed suits owners who appreciate a dignified, athletic companion that enjoys both outdoor adventures and peaceful downtime.
Fun fact: The Afghan Hound is considered one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with roots tracing back thousands of years.
17. Siberian Husky: a friendly and adventurous breed that is often used for sled dog racing
Siberian Huskies are a medium-sized breed known for their thick double coat, striking markings, and bright, expressive eyes. Originally bred by the Chukchi people in northeastern Asia, they were developed to pull sleds across long distances in extreme cold. Their energetic, outgoing nature makes them one of the most recognizable “cool” breeds in the world.
They do best with an active owner who can provide plenty of exercise, structured routines, and mental stimulation. Huskies can be quite independent and mischievous, so consistent training is essential, especially because they are talented escape artists. They love the outdoors and are happiest when they have space to run and opportunities to explore.
This breed is ideal for active owners who enjoy outdoor sports and want a friendly, adventurous companion that thrives on physical activity.
Fun fact: Siberian Huskies are known for their distinctive “talking” sounds and dramatic vocalizations, which they use to communicate instead of barking frequently.
18. Doberman Pinscher: a sleek and powerful breed that is often used as a guard dog
Doberman Pinschers are a medium to large-sized breed known for their sleek, athletic build and confident posture. Originally developed in Germany for guard and protection work, they are highly intelligent, alert, and incredibly loyal to their families. Their elegance and striking appearance make them one of the most iconic and “cool-looking” breeds in the world.
They do best with an experienced owner who can offer consistent training, clear structure, and daily mental and physical exercise. Dobermans bond strongly with their humans and thrive when included in family activities. With proper socialization, they are affectionate, gentle, and surprisingly sensitive companions.
This breed is perfect for committed owners who want a loyal, protective dog with sharp intelligence and a strong desire to work alongside their humans.
Fun fact: The Doberman was created in the 19th century by a tax collector named Louis Dobermann, who wanted a dependable canine protector while traveling door-to-door.
19. Weimaraner: a sleek and athletic breed that is often used for hunting and sports
Weimaraners are a large, athletic breed known for their distinctive silver-grey coat and sharp intelligence. Originally bred in Germany for big-game hunting, they have strong working instincts, high endurance, and a natural eagerness to stay active. Their striking eyes and elegant silhouette make them one of the most visually iconic sporting breeds.
They require an experienced, active owner who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Weimaraners thrive in structured homes where they receive consistent training and daily outlets for their energy. Without sufficient activity, they can become restless or vocal, so they fit best with owners who enjoy outdoor adventures.
Ideal for energetic dog lovers, this breed excels when given a job and plenty of human interaction, forming deep, loyal bonds with their families.
Fun fact: Early Weimaraners were so prized by German nobles that the breed was kept secret and only shared outside Germany in the early 1900s.
20. French Bulldog: an adorable and playful breed for the perfect companion
French Bulldogs are a small, compact breed known for their signature bat ears, expressive faces, and affectionate, playful nature. Originally bred in England as companion dogs, they quickly became beloved across Europe for their charming personalities and adaptable lifestyle. Their cute looks and clownish behavior make them one of the coolest and most popular companion dogs today.
They thrive when they receive plenty of love and attention. Frenchies don’t need intense exercise, but they do enjoy short walks, games, and lots of cuddles. Thanks to their adaptable temperament, they fit well in apartments, family homes, or even with first-time dog owners, as long as they aren’t left alone for long periods.
Perfect for anyone wanting a loyal, affectionate, and easygoing friend, French Bulldogs shine as family pets who bring daily joy and entertainment.
Fun fact: Frenchies can’t swim well because of their short legs and heavy upper bodies, so always keep them away from deep water!
Would you like to find out if a French Bulldog is the right dog breed for you? Take our quiz here!
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FAQs
Unique looks, special abilities, interesting history, or standout personality traits can all make a breed feel special.
Breeds like the Bichon Frise, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and French Bulldog adapt very well to smaller spaces.
High-energy breeds like the Australian Cattle Dog, Saluki, Whippet, and Siberian Husky need lots of daily activity.
Not necessarily, but every breed has specific needs, so matching lifestyle and temperament is essential.
The article is based on the expert knowledge of the TomKings Puppies team who have been breeding French Bulldogs for 15 years on their farms. Check their available French Bulldog puppies, or if you have any questions or comments let us know below the article.
