The Most Popular Flat-Faced Dog Breeds in the World
Flat-faced dogs have a look all their own: short muzzles, big eyes, and faces that seem to express human-level emotion. These brachycephalic breeds have won over dog lovers around the world, from royal courts to apartment couches. Here’s a playful look at the most beloved flat-faced dogs and what makes each one stand out.
French Bulldog
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No dog has climbed the popularity charts quite like the French Bulldog, and it’s not hard to see why. They don’t need much exercise and adapt well to city life. That adorable snort is part of the charm, but it also means they need to be kept cool in hot weather.
Pug
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Pugs date back to China’s Han Dynasty and have been winning people over ever since with their curly tails and wrinkly faces. They are known for snoring and facial expressions that seem to say, “Really?” However, breathing problems and obesity are things to watch out for.
Shih Tzu
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Shih Tzus get along with just about everyone and don’t need much space, which makes them ideal for apartment living. Because of their pushed-in faces, they’re prone to eye issues and need regular grooming to keep those long locks from becoming a tangled mess.
Boxer
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Boxers are among the most athletic of the flat-faced bunch, with boundless energy and a goofy streak to match. Heat is their enemy, and short muzzles and high energy can be a risky combo. Still, a well-trained Boxer is a smart, loving dog that thrives with an active owner.
Boston Terrier
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The Boston Terrier is nicknamed the “American Gentleman,” and they earned that title thanks to its tuxedo-like coat and friendly manners. While they’re sturdy and cheerful, their protruding eyes are vulnerable to injury.
English Bulldog
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Bulldogs look serious, but they’re built for staying put. They’re content with short walks and long naps, usually wherever the coolest floor space is. Those deep face folds trap moisture and debris, so owners need to clean them out regularly to keep skin issues away.
Pekingese
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Pekingese were once exclusive to Chinese royals, and legend has it that the Buddha created them by shrinking a lion. They are deeply bonded to their families, but are wary of strangers. A Pekingese named Sun Yat-sen survived the Titanic and was one of only three dogs to do so.
Lhasa Apso
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Tibetan monasteries used Lhasa Apsos as alert watchdogs, and they still have a knack for knowing what’s going on. These small, confident dogs are smart and slightly suspicious of newcomers.
Bullmastiff
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Despite their imposing build, Bullmastiffs are calm and quiet. They were created in 19th-century England to guard estates from poachers, but today’s Bullmastiffs are far more likely to guard your sofa.
Chow Chow
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Few breeds look as distinct as the Chow Chow, with its lion-like mane and blue-black tongue. One of the oldest dog breeds in history, Chows are famously independent. Though their muzzle is only mildly shortened, they’re considered brachycephalic and overheat easily.
Japanese Chin
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Japanese Chins are light on their feet and tend to move with a quiet, cat-like grace. They’re content spending time close to their people and don’t need much space or noise to stay happy. They’ve got an independent streak but usually prefer being part of whatever’s going on, just not right in the middle of it.
Cane Corso
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The Cane Corso may not seem like a flat-faced breed at first glance, but it fits the brachycephalic mold with their broad skulls and slightly shortened muzzles. They need strong leadership and consistent training. They are less prone to breathing issues, but they still don’t tolerate extreme heat well.
Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffon
The Brussels Griffon has a face that’s been compared to a monkey, an Ewok, and your grumpy neighbor. They are the most expressive mug. They like routine, stick close to their people, and don’t do well when left out of the action for too long.
Affenpinscher
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Once tasked with chasing rodents around 17th-century German stables, the Affenpinscher now lives a much more luxurious life. Their name means “monkey terrier,” and it fits. While their brachycephalic features are less extreme than many, they’re still at risk of joint and respiratory issues later in life.
Dogue de Bordeaux
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The Dogue de Bordeaux has a commanding presence but a calm, affectionate personality. These French giants were once used to pull carts and guard estates for their protectiveness. They even starred alongside Tom Hanks in Turner & Hooch, but don’t expect yours to solve crimes anytime soon.