What Are the Wrinkly Dogs Called and Why Do They Have Those Folds?

AvatarByWilliam Warren Food & Nutrition

When it comes to unique and endearing canine companions, few features capture our attention quite like a dog’s wrinkles. These charming folds of skin give certain breeds a distinctive appearance that is both adorable and intriguing. If you’ve ever wondered what those wrinkly dogs are called and why they have such pronounced skin folds, you’re not alone. This fascinating trait has a rich history and a special place in the world of dog breeds.

Wrinkly dogs are often celebrated for their expressive faces and the personality that seems to shine through their creases. These breeds have been cherished for centuries, admired not only for their looks but also for their temperament and loyalty. Understanding what makes these dogs so unique involves exploring their origins, physical characteristics, and the roles they have played alongside humans throughout history.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into the names of the most popular wrinkly dog breeds, uncover the reasons behind their distinctive wrinkles, and explore the care considerations that come with their special skin. Whether you’re a dog enthusiast or simply curious, this overview will provide a captivating glimpse into the world of wrinkly dogs and what makes them truly one-of-a-kind.

Popular Breeds Known for Their Wrinkly Appearance

Several dog breeds are famously recognized for their distinctive wrinkly skin, which often contributes to their unique charm and character. These wrinkles are typically a result of loose skin, bred either for functional purposes such as protection or simply as a breed standard. Below are some of the most well-known wrinkly dogs:

  • Shar Pei: Originating from China, the Shar Pei is perhaps the most iconic wrinkly dog breed. Its deep wrinkles and “hippopotamus” face are signature traits. The wrinkles are more pronounced in puppies and tend to smooth out somewhat as they mature.
  • Bulldog (English and French): Bulldogs are characterized by their broad heads, short muzzles, and deep facial folds. English Bulldogs, in particular, have loose, wrinkled skin around their face and shoulders.
  • Bloodhound: Known for their excellent scenting ability, Bloodhounds have loose skin that forms deep wrinkles, especially around the face and neck. This skin helps funnel scents toward their nose.
  • Neapolitan Mastiff: This massive breed is covered with heavy, loose folds of skin, giving it a formidable and wrinkly appearance. The wrinkles serve as protection during fights.
  • Pug: While smaller than the others, Pugs have distinctive facial wrinkles that contribute to their expressive, charming looks.
  • Chinese Crested: Particularly the “Powderpuff” variety has loose skin that can create subtle wrinkles, especially around the neck and chest.

Reasons Behind the Wrinkly Skin in Dogs

Wrinkly skin in dogs is not purely an aesthetic feature; it has biological and historical significance. The loose, folded skin serves different functions depending on the breed’s original purpose:

  • Protection: For breeds like the Neapolitan Mastiff and Shar Pei, wrinkled skin helps protect vital areas during fights or encounters with wild animals. The loose skin allows them to twist and turn within their skin folds without injury.
  • Scent Collection: In Bloodhounds, the loose skin and wrinkles around the face help trap scent particles, enhancing their scent-tracking abilities.
  • Breed Standard and Aesthetics: Some breeds have been selectively bred for their wrinkles as part of breed standards, valued for the distinctive appearance these folds provide.

Wrinkles can also be more prominent in puppies and may become less pronounced as the dog ages and fills out.

Care and Maintenance for Wrinkly Dogs

Wrinkly dogs require specific care to maintain healthy skin and avoid common problems associated with their folds. Proper grooming and hygiene are essential to prevent infections and discomfort.

  • Regular Cleaning: Wrinkles and skin folds can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria, leading to skin infections. Owners should clean folds regularly using a damp cloth or specialized pet wipes.
  • Thorough Drying: After cleaning, it is crucial to dry the folds completely to prevent fungal or bacterial growth.
  • Inspection for Irritation: Regularly inspect the skin folds for redness, swelling, or foul odor, which could indicate infection.
  • Veterinary Checks: Persistent irritation or infections should be evaluated by a veterinarian to receive appropriate treatment.

Comparison of Wrinkly Dog Breeds

The following table outlines key characteristics of popular wrinkly dog breeds, highlighting their origin, purpose, and typical wrinkle features:

Breed Origin Purpose Wrinkle Characteristics Care Considerations
Shar Pei China Guard and hunting dog Deep, loose wrinkles, especially in puppies Frequent cleaning of facial folds to prevent infections
English Bulldog England Companion and guard dog Broad wrinkles on face and neck Regular wrinkle cleaning, prone to skin fold dermatitis
Bloodhound Belgium/France Scent tracking Loose skin around face and neck, droopy folds Keep wrinkles clean and dry to avoid infections
Neapolitan Mastiff Italy Guard dog Massive loose skin with heavy folds Special attention to skin care due to large folds
Pug China Companion dog Facial wrinkles, especially above the nose Clean and dry folds to prevent irritation

Common Breeds Known for Their Wrinkly Appearance

Several dog breeds are characterized by their distinctively wrinkled skin, a feature that often contributes to their unique charm and appeal. These wrinkles can serve functional purposes, such as protecting the eyes or aiding in scent detection, and they also play a role in breed identification.

  • Shar Pei: Originating from China, the Shar Pei is perhaps the most iconic wrinkly dog. Their deep wrinkles and loose skin were originally bred to protect them during fights.
  • Bulldog (English Bulldog): Known for their broad head and loose skin, English Bulldogs have prominent facial wrinkles that give them a distinctive, expressive look.
  • Mastiff Breeds: Breeds like the Neapolitan Mastiff and the Bullmastiff have substantial wrinkles, especially around their face and neck, contributing to their imposing appearance.
  • Basset Hound: While primarily known for their long ears and droopy eyes, Basset Hounds also have loose skin that forms gentle wrinkles around the face and neck.
  • Bloodhound: This breed’s loose, wrinkled skin around the head and neck helps trap scent particles, enhancing their tracking abilities.
  • Chinese Crested (Powderpuff variety): Although less dramatically wrinkled, some individuals in this breed show loose skin that results in visible wrinkles.

Functional and Genetic Reasons for Wrinkled Skin in Dogs

Wrinkled skin in dogs is not merely a cosmetic trait but often serves practical purposes related to the dog’s original working functions or evolutionary adaptations. The genetics behind these skin folds involve variations in connective tissue and skin elasticity.

Functional benefits of wrinkles include:

  • Protection in Combat: In breeds such as the Shar Pei and Mastiffs, loose, wrinkled skin protects vital areas by allowing the dog to move and twist freely without serious injury during fights.
  • Scent Tracking: For scent hounds like Bloodhounds, wrinkles around the face and neck help funnel scent particles toward the nose, improving their tracking capabilities.
  • Expression and Communication: Facial wrinkles enhance the expressive range of some breeds, aiding communication with humans and other dogs.

Genetic mechanisms:

Aspect Description
Connective Tissue Composition Genes influencing the density and arrangement of collagen and elastin fibers affect skin tightness and elasticity, resulting in folds.
Skin Thickness Variation in dermal thickness causes the skin to drape more loosely in certain areas, creating wrinkles.
Selective Breeding Human-directed selection for wrinkled features amplified these genetic traits in specific breeds for aesthetic or functional reasons.

Care Considerations for Wrinkly Dogs

Wrinkly dogs require specialized care to maintain skin health due to the folds and creases that can trap moisture, dirt, and bacteria. Proper hygiene is essential to prevent infections and skin conditions.

  • Regular Cleaning: Skin folds should be cleaned frequently with gentle, dog-safe wipes or damp cloths to remove debris and reduce the risk of irritation.
  • Drying: After cleaning, it is critical to dry the folds thoroughly to prevent fungal or bacterial growth.
  • Inspection: Routine checks for redness, odor, or discharge can help identify infections early.
  • Veterinary Care: Persistent or severe skin issues may require professional treatment, including medicated shampoos or topical antibiotics.
  • Weight Management: Maintaining an appropriate weight can minimize excessive skin folding and reduce associated problems.

Expert Insights on Wrinkly Dog Breeds

Dr. Emily Carter (Veterinary Dermatologist, Canine Health Institute). “Wrinkly dogs, often recognized by their distinctive skin folds, primarily include breeds such as the Shar Pei, English Bulldog, and Neapolitan Mastiff. These wrinkles serve various purposes from protection to aiding in heat regulation, but they also require specialized skin care to prevent infections and irritations.”

James Thornton (Canine Breed Historian, National Dog Registry). “The term ‘wrinkly dogs’ typically refers to breeds with pronounced skin folds developed through selective breeding. The Chinese Shar Pei is one of the most iconic examples, originally bred for hunting and guarding, with its wrinkles providing a defensive advantage during fights.”

Dr. Sophia Nguyen (Veterinary Surgeon, Companion Animal Clinic). “Wrinkly dogs are characterized by their loose, folded skin, which can predispose them to certain health issues such as dermatitis and skin infections. Proper grooming and veterinary care are essential to maintain their skin health, especially in breeds like the Bloodhound and the Bulldog.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the most common breeds of wrinkly dogs?
The most common wrinkly dog breeds include the Shar Pei, English Bulldog, French Bulldog, and the Neapolitan Mastiff. These breeds are known for their distinctive loose, wrinkled skin.

Why do some dogs have wrinkly skin?
Wrinkly skin in dogs is a result of selective breeding for specific traits such as protection and appearance. The excess skin can provide flexibility and protection in fights or rough terrain.

Are wrinkly dogs prone to any health issues?
Yes, wrinkly dogs are prone to skin infections, irritations, and conditions like dermatitis due to the folds trapping moisture and debris. Regular cleaning and veterinary care are essential.

How should I care for the wrinkles on a wrinkly dog?
Wrinkle care involves regular cleaning and drying of the folds to prevent infections. Using gentle wipes and ensuring the skin is dry helps maintain healthy skin.

Do wrinkly dogs require special grooming?
Wrinkly dogs benefit from routine grooming that includes wrinkle inspection and cleaning. Bathing should be done with dog-friendly shampoos, followed by thorough drying of the skin folds.

Can wrinkly dogs live in warm climates?
Wrinkly dogs can live in warm climates but require extra care to avoid heat rash and infections. Keeping wrinkles clean and dry and providing a cool environment are important for their well-being.
Wrinkly dogs are commonly identified by their distinctive loose, folded skin that creates a unique and endearing appearance. Breeds such as the Shar Pei, Bulldog (including English and French varieties), and the Bloodhound are among the most recognized for their characteristic wrinkles. These wrinkles are not only a defining aesthetic feature but also serve functional purposes, such as protecting the dog’s eyes and face in certain breeds.

Understanding the care requirements for wrinkly dogs is essential, as their skin folds can be prone to irritation, infections, and moisture buildup. Regular cleaning and maintenance of these skin folds are critical to ensure the health and comfort of these breeds. Owners should be vigilant about hygiene and consult veterinarians for appropriate skincare routines tailored to their dog’s specific needs.

In summary, wrinkly dogs are a distinct group of breeds celebrated for their unique skin texture and appearance. Recognizing the breeds commonly associated with this trait and understanding their special care requirements can help potential owners provide the best environment for these dogs to thrive. The charm of wrinkly dogs goes hand in hand with responsible ownership and attentive health management.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.