Dogs have been man’s best friend for millennia, and it’s safe to say that most of us absolutely can’t imagine our life without dogs in them.
There are already so many unique and rare breeds around the world, yet breeders are still committed to creating new ones all the time – most of which are designer dog breeds like the Cockapoo or the Goldendoodle.
If you love dogs and you want to know what the coolest dog breeds are in order to choose a puppy that’s as cool as you are – you’ve come to the right place.
So, what are the coolest dog breeds, and what is it that actually makes them cool? Read on to find out PupVine’s top 37 cool dog breeds.
37 Cool Dog Breeds
Since we can all agree that dogs are our best friends in the whole wide world, we can also probably agree that some breeds are simply cooler than others – but, what is it that makes a certain dog breed cool?
Is it their unique appearance or their cool temperament? Are purebred dogs cooler than mixed breeds, or is it the other way around? Are large dogs like the Cane Corso cooler than small dogs like the Chihuahua?
The truth is, coolness is a relative and subjective term that differs from one person’s opinion to the next. In other words, it’s in the eye of the beholder – just like beauty is.
What’s cool to me might not be cool to you, and it would take forever to debate the subtle nuances of what makes a certain dog breed cool or not.
Every dog breed has its perks, and each individual dog of a certain breed might differ from the norm in terms of appearance, temperament, energy levels, needs, etc.
That being said, there are some dog breeds out there that most people can agree upon as being objectively cool dog breeds.
For the purposes of this list, we’ll be focusing on the most popular, the most beautiful, the most unique, and the rarest dog breeds in the world, which can objectively be considered cool dog breeds – just keep in mind that they’re not ranked in any particular order.
37. The Labrador Retriever
To kick off the list of cool dog breeds, we’ll start with a fan-favorite breed that’s practically synonymous with the term “cool dog” – the Labrador Retriever.
Why Labs are Cool
Although owning the most popular dog in the world might not be considered cool by some because it’s the most popular dog in the world – Labs are number one in our heart for a reason.
What makes Labs cool is their overall versatility – Labrador Retrievers excel at dog sports, they’re great service and therapy dogs, excellent search and rescue dogs, trusty hiking companions… you name it!
Even when kept as regular-old family pets, they’re a do-all, go-wherever, play-with-whoever, and cuddle-with-whoever type of breed.
Both male and female Labs are friendly, affectionate, intelligent, and personable – in addition to being easily trainable and eager to please their owner, which only adds to their charm.
Another cool fact about Labs is that they come in three main colors: black, yellow, and chocolate – but they also come in nine more color variations, some of which are the gorgeous Fox Red Labrador, the mesmerizing White Labrador, and the coolest of all… the Silver Labrador.
What’s even cooler than a purebred Lab? Maybe it‘s one of the 26 best Labrador mixes.
36. The Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever certainly deserves to be on the list of cool dog breeds simply because it’s an even more laid-back version of its Labrador cousin.
Why Goldies Are Cool
Goldies are the second most popular dog breed in the world, which should come as no surprise considering their stable temperament, friendly disposition, and affectionate nature – what’s cooler than that?
Both male and female Golden Retrievers are easily trainable, obedient, and intelligent dogs that can be utilized for pretty much any purpose – just like Labs, Goldies excel at being sports dogs, service and therapy dogs, tracking dogs, police and military dogs, and regular-old family dogs.
Goldies are not aggressive by nature – they’re playful and friendly most of the time, but they can also be excellent watchdogs and guard dogs when properly trained.
There are three main types of Goldies: the English, the American, and the Canadian Golden Retriever – as well as two subtypes, which are the Show and the Field Golden Retriever.
You be the judge as to what the coolest Golden Retriever color is for you, but our pick for the coolest Goldie is the Red Golden Retriever.
If you want to buy a Goldie, make sure to source your new pup from one of the best Golden Retriever breeders in the U.S. – you can also check out the best Mini Golden Retriever breeders for an even smaller and cooler version of the standard Goldie.
Related: 58 Golden Retriever mixes – the coolest and cutest Goldie mixes
35. The German Shepherd
Another breed among the most popular dog breeds (also considered by many to be among the cool dog breeds) is the German Shepherd – an intelligent, brave, obedient, and friendly dog with a great work ethic, that was originally bred to be a herding dog.
Why GSDs Are Cool
German Shepherds are the ultimate all-purpose working dog – their versatility is why they’re utilized by police and military forces as great drug-sniffing dogs, bomb-detection dogs, and search and rescue dogs, but they are also valued as therapy dogs, eye-seeing dogs, and family pets.
Both male and female German Shepherds are well-tempered, obedient, easily trainable, and undyingly loyal – what’s cooler than owning a calm and loving GSD that can also fulfill the role of an excellent personal protector?
Another fact that makes GSDs cool is that they come in more than 15 shades of different coat colors – of which the coolest ones are undoubtedly the white GSD, the black GSD, and the Isabella German Shepherd.
If you want to buy a new GSD puppy, make sure to source your new best friend from one of the finest German Shepherd breeders in the U.S.
Related: 23 German Shepherd mixes – hybrids that are cooler than their parents
34. The Greyhound
The Greyhound is one of the four extant sighthound breeds in the world – it’s also one of those objectively cool dog breeds that turn a lot of heads wherever it goes.
Why Greyhounds Are Cool
Originally bred as hunting dogs, Greyhounds are large dogs with a slender waist and a powerful chest, and their body is not just for show – they’re accurately dubbed “the Ferraris of the canine world” because they’re the fastest breed of all.
In fact, Greyhounds can reach speeds of up to 45 mph – which is why they’ve long ago cemented a name for themselves in the canine racing world.
Although they’re named Greyhounds, this breed comes in six different coat colors and patterns, the coolest of which might just be the white Greyhound.
Another interesting fact about this breed is that its origin can be traced back to around 3000 BC in ancient Egypt – what’s cooler than owning one of the oldest breeds in the world?
If your interest is piqued, and you want to buy a Greyhound puppy, check out some of the best Greyhound breeders in the U.S. in order to buy a healthy and purebred Greyhound.
33. The Australian Shepherd
Another breed that deserves to be on the list of cool dog breeds is the Australian Shepherd – although they’re called Australian, this working breed was actually developed sometime in the mid-1800s in the United States.
Why Aussies Are Cool
Originally bred as herding dogs, both male and female Aussies are intelligent, obedient, eager to please, and easy to train – they are good with kids and make excellent watchdogs and guard dogs due to their inherent protective nature.
Aussies are high-energy dogs that need ample daily exercise and attention, but they make up for their high-maintenance requirements by being undyingly loyal and affectionate companions.
They come in seven different coat colors and patterns, some of which are the beautiful red merle Aussie, the equally stunning blue merle Aussie, and the gorgeous red tri Australian Shepherd.
Aussies are one of those breeds that never go out of fashion, and are best suited for people with an active lifestyle – if you want to own one, make sure to source your new pup from one of the best Australian Shepherd breeders in the U.S.
Related: 23 Australian Shepherd mixes – are they cooler than the purebreds?
32. The Border Collie
Although there is still some debate over the exact origin of the breed, the Border Collie’s roots can be traced back to at least 2000 years ago in the Anglo-Scottish border region – hence, the name ‘Border Collie’.
Why Border Collies Are Cool
The reason why Border Collies are cool is that they rank number one on the list of the 20 smartest dog breeds in the world.
Apart from being the smartest dogs, both male and female Border Collies are affectionate, obedient, athletic, tenacious, loyal, and alert dogs – albeit they are known to bark a lot and might be aggressive sometimes.
Even some of the world’s most influential celebrities like Queen Victoria, James Dean, Jon Bon Jovi, James Franco, Tiger Woods, and Ethan Hawke have owned or still own Border Collies – what’s cooler than that?
That said, Border Collies are highly energetic dogs that are best suited for people with active lifestyles; they need ample amounts of daily exercise or a job to do; otherwise, they might grow despondent – the best way to keep them fit and satisfied is to let them do the thing they love most, which is swimming.
Border Collies come in more than 29 different coat colors and markings – the coolest one being the blue merle Border Collie.
Related: 43 Border Collie mixes – are they smarter than the original?
31. The Groenendael
The Groenendael (also called the Belgian Sheepdog) is a type of Belgian herding dog from which the Belgian Malinois and the Belgian Tervuren were developed.
Why Groenendaels Are Cool
Apart from being similar in appearance and purpose to the German Shepherd, the Groenendael is a rare dog that’s cool because it comes in only one color – solid black.
This wolf-like dog breed might appear intimidating at first glance, but the truth is that Groenendaels are affectionate, loyal, gentle, and playful dogs that get along well with other dogs and small children when properly socialized and trained.
Due to their high intelligence quotient and eagerness to obey, Groenendaels are easily trainable, and are utilized for a plethora of purposes such as police and military work, search and rescue, therapy and assistance, and much more – that’s about as cool as a dog can get.
Of course, they’re also kept as family pets due to their gentle nature, sweet disposition, and incredible watchdog tendencies – keeping one as a pet will discourage any would-be burglar from entering your yard.
However, Groenendaels are notoriously energetic dogs that need lots of daily exercise in order to stay mentally and physically healthy – therefore, they require an owner who’s able to keep up with them on a daily basis – not someone who prefers being a couch potato.
30. The Bull Terrier
As their name so obviously suggests, Bull Terriers were created as a cross between Bulldogs and Terriers – they originated in England in the 19th century, and were originally bred to be ratting dogs, but were also subsequently used in blood sports, such as bull-baiting and dogfighting.
Why Bull Terriers Are Cool
Bull Terriers are considered to be among the cool dog breeds simply because of their unique appearance – their characteristic shark-like face is scary-looking and cool-looking at the same time, albeit whether they’re generally scary or cool depends on who you ask.
Temperament-wise, Bull Terriers are far from aggressive dogs when properly socialized and trained at a young age – both male and female Bull Terriers are sweet-tempered, even-keeled, and loyal dogs that get along well with children and other pets in the household.
One possible downside to owning a Bull Terrier is that they’re known to be strong-willed and difficult to train – but with proper positive reinforcement training, training a Bull Terrier might prove easier than most people think.
If you want a Bull Terrier puppy of your own, make sure to source your new pup from one of the best Bull Terrier breeders in the U.S.
29. The Great Dane
One of the largest dog breeds in the world, but also one that’s accurately dubbed a gentle giant is the Great Dane – this breed was developed in Germany and England by combining the speed and agility of the Greyhound with the size and strength of the English Mastiff.
Why Great Danes Are Cool
One look at this massive breed and no further explanation is needed – the Great Dane practically exudes coolness due to its impressive stature and confident posture.
Temperament-wise, both male and female Great Danes are gentle, loyal, obedient, intelligent, and affectionate toward their owner, but are also aloof toward strangers and are excellent watchdogs and guard dogs.
Great Danes come in more than 10 coat colors and patterns, some of which are standard colors acknowledged by the AKC (the American Kennel Club) like the blue Great Dane and the mantle Great Dane, and other rare colors like the white Great Dane.
If you want a gentle giant of your own, make sure to source your new puppy from the best Great Dane breeders in the U.S.
You’ll also need to keep a Great Dane feeding chart handy in order to know how much to feed your new pup, as well as a Great Dane growth chart in order to keep track of your pup’s developmental progress.
Related: 50 Great Dane mixes – the most popular crossbreeds
28. The French Bulldog
The French Bulldog is one of the coolest cool dog breeds simply due to its sweet temperament and adorable appearance – it’s the best dog for people who live in apartments and want a sturdy and loyal family pet.
Why Frenchies Are Cool
Apart from being a French dog breed, which is cool by default, both male and female Frenchies are laid-back, friendly, loyal, calm, and personable dogs that get along well with other pets and small children in the household – and they’re rarely aggressive toward humans, which is always a plus.
Although they’re cool, Frenchies are one of the most expensive breeds to purchase and keep, so prospective Frenchie owners need to do their research and decide whether they’ll be able to meet their pup’s needs.
However, Frenchies make up for their expensive price tag by being some of the most loyal, affectionate, and gentle breeds out there, and they’re a good fit for dog owners who want a laid-back couch companion instead of a high-energy breed.
They come in five coat color variations, the coolest of which are the cream Frenchie and the piebald Frenchie.
Related: 32 French Bulldog mixes – are they even cooler than purebred Frenchies?
27. The Irish Wolfhound
One of the largest extant dog breeds in the world, the Irish Wolfhound originated in Ireland, and was mainly used to hunt wolves, deer, and boar – although they’re most famous for being used in World War II as war dogs.
Why Irish Wolfhounds Are Cool
Much like the Great Dane (albeit slightly larger), the Irish Wolfhound is an enormous dog breed that turns a lot of heads wherever it goes – due to its rugged appearance and intimidating size, the Irish Wolfhound is one of the coolest dog breeds to have around.
That said, purebred Irish Wolfhounds have a high price tag and are prone to several health problems, both hereditary and acquired – prospective Irish Wolfhound owners must be prepared for a lot of additional expenses in order to keep their gentle giant healthy.
Temperament-wise, Irish Wolfhounds are gentle, loyal, patient, thoughtful, and affectionate dogs that also have a protective side – they make excellent pets for owners who are able to handle them.
If you know you’re bound to buy an Irish Wolfhound, just make sure to source your new pup from one of the best Irish Wolfhound breeders in the U.S.
26. The Lagotto Romagnolo
The Lagotto Romagnolo is an Italian dog breed that is a waterfowl hunting extraordinaire – it’s no wonder that Lagotti (yes, that is the correct plural of the word) are regarded as one of the coolest cool dog breeds.
Why Lagotti Are Cool
Sometimes unfairly labeled as one of the aggressive dog breeds, Lagotti are actually sweet-tempered, loyal, intelligent, and obedient dogs that are simply so attached to their owner that they sometimes feel the need to protect them, even when there’s no danger in sight.
Dogs that are labeled as aggressive just need a bit of proper socialization and training in order to curb their excitable nature – when properly trained and socialized, both male and female Lagotti Romagnoli make wonderful family pets.
They’re also among the medium-energy dog breeds that don’t require a lot of exercise in order to stay healthy and happy, which is why they’re a good fit for people who don’t have a lot of time to devote to their dog.
If you decide to buy a new Lagotto Romagnolo puppy, make sure to source it from one of the best Lagotto Romagnolo breeders in the U.S.
25. The Norwegian Elkhound
The national dog of Norway and the doppelganger of the German Shepherd, the Norwegian Elkhound originated around 5000 BC in Norway – it was primarily used to hunt elk, along with other wild game.
Why Norwegian Elkhounds Are Cool
Apart from looking like a hybrid of the German Shepherd and the Siberian Husky, which, in itself, is cool enough, the Norwegian Elkhound is a versatile dog breed that can be utilized for many different purposes.
A rare dog breed to find outside of its native Nordic countries, the Norwegian Elkhound is pretty expensive to buy and keep – but it makes up for its high price with sheer loyalty, obedience, an affectionate nature, and high intelligence.
Norwegian Elkhounds are gentle toward small children, and are good with other animals as long as they are properly socialized and trained from a young age.
If not trained and socialized, this breed can be aggressive toward other dogs, but it will rarely be aggressive toward humans.
See Also: 17 Norwegian Elkhound Mixes You Will Love
24. The Poodle
One of the most popular dogs for crossbreeding due to its amiable temperament, few health problems, and low-shedding hypoallergenic coat – the standard Poodle is a regal breed that actually originated in Germany, although most people believe it was bred in France since it is the national dog of France.
Why Poodles Are Cool
Apart from being one of the most popular dogs for crossbreeding, Poodles are sweet-tempered, friendly, loyal, obedient, and intelligent dogs that love being the center of attention.
Poodles never go out of fashion – and while we’re on the subject of fashion, the coolest thing about Poodles is that you can style their curly coat pretty much however you prefer.
Poodles come in more than 30 coat colors and patterns, the coolest of which are undoubtedly the black Poodle and the phantom Poodle.
One thing that makes Poodles even cooler is that they also come in three smaller sizes than the original standard Poodle – the Toy Poodle, the Miniature Poodle, and the Parti Poodle.
If you want to own a Mini Poodle, check out the best Mini Poodle breeders in the U.S. If you’re more of a Toy Poodle person, source your new puppy from the best Toy Poodle breeders in the U.S.
Related: 25 best Poodle mixes – cuter and cooler than the original? You be the judge.
23. The Yorkshire Terrier
Often called the second smallest breed in the world (the smallest being the Chihuahua), the Yorkshire Terrier is an amiable, affectionate, and loyal dog breed with a big personality that originated in the 1800s in the Yorkshire country of England.
Why Yorkies Are Cool
Although they’re tiny, Yorkies make up for their minute stature with a huge personality – these little goofballs are full of energy and love being the center of attention.
One thing that Yorkies are best at is lap warming – these little furballs love to sit on their owner’s lap, and they’re content with doing so pretty much all the time.
Temperament-wise, both male and female Yorkies are intelligent and affectionate, and are also confident, bold, and independent despite their small stature – but they’re also known for being vocal dogs that love to bark at nothing, so prospective owners beware.
Yorkies come in eight colors, but the coolest part about their coat is that they’re hypoallergenic – which is always a plus for people who suffer from dog hair allergies.
Related: 40 gorgeous Yorkie mixes – hybrids that will take your breath away.
22. The Alaskan Malamute
The next dog on the list of cool dog breeds is the Alaskan Malamute – a hound that originated in Alaska, and was bred for endurance and strength in order to be able to do its job, which was mainly pulling heavy sleds along the Alaskan wilderness.
Why Alaskan Mals Are Cool
Alaskan Malamutes are large dogs that look like wolves – what’s cooler than having your own wolf-like dog?
However, contrary to popular belief, Alaskan Malamutes are no more related to wolves than other dog breeds – in fact, DNA research has shown that Shih Tzus are genetically closer to wolves than Alaskan Malamutes are – surprising, isn’t it?
But, that fact doesn’t make this breed any less cool since it makes up for it with a lovable temperament, high intelligence, undying loyalty, and almost unparalleled obedience.
Alaskan Malamutes are generally friendly, affectionate, devoted, and loyal dogs that love to be around their owner – they are also extremely territorial and protective of their loved ones, which makes them excellent guard dogs.
Make sure to check out the best Alaskan Malamute breeders in the U.S. if you want to own your own gentle giant.
21. The Australian Cattle Dog
The Australian Cattle Dog (also called the Blue Heeler) is a herding dog breed that was developed in the 19th century in Australia by crossbreeding the native Dingoes with Collies and other herding dogs that were brought to Australia by British settlers.
Apart from being a unique breed, the Blue Heeler is also one of the coolest cool dog breeds in the world.
Why Blue Heelers Are Cool
Blue Heelers are one of the coolest cool dog breeds simply because they’re the perfect adventure companions – if you’re an avid outdoorsman and you love taking long hikes in the wilderness, the Blue Heeler is the perfect breed for you.
Australian Cattle dogs are also regarded as one of the healthiest dog breeds in the world – they are prone to only a few minor health conditions such as eye defects, congenital deafness, and joint problems – what’s cooler than health?
If you want an ACD of your own, make sure to source your new best friend from one of the best Blue Heeler breeders in the U.S.
Related: Blue Heeler German Shepherd mix – is the hybrid better than its parents?
20. The Bedlington Terrier
A small English hunting breed that dates back to the 1700s – the Bedlington Terrier got its name after Bedlington… a small mining town in North East England.
Why Bedlington Terriers Are Cool
The coolest thing about Bedlington Terriers is the way that their hypoallergenic coat can be clipped into various styles, with the most popular being the classic Bedlington Terrier look that has become the staple of the breed.
When viewed from the side, a dog with the classic Bedlington cut looks like a Bull Terrier mixed with a Poodle – it’s safe to say that this breed has the coolest hairstyle in the entire canine world.
Although it’s a small terrier breed, the Bedlington Terrier requires ample amounts of daily exercise and attention in order to stay healthy and content.
Temperament-wise, both males and females of this breed are known to be well-tempered, affectionate, intelligent, and playful – they get along well with small children and other pets in the house when properly socialized at a young age.
19. The Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog originated in 1912 in the canton of Bern, Switzerland – this large dog breed was originally used as a farm dog that would help pull heavy loads, herd livestock, and generally keep the farm and its owners safe.
Why Berners Are Cool
Apart from being a large dog breed that turns heads wherever it goes, Berners are as cool as cool dog breeds can get – they’re laid-back, friendly, affectionate, and obedient dogs, but are also not afraid to put themselves in harm’s way in order to protect their loved ones.
Berners are not that expensive to purchase initially, but due to being large dogs, they’re expensive to keep – of course, Mini Bernese Mountain dogs are less expensive to maintain because they eat less than their larger cousins.
Both male and female Bernese Mountain Dogs are dubbed as dogs that are least likely to be aggressive toward humans – their amiable nature, sweet-temperament, and loyalty are second to none, which is why they’re perfect family dogs.
If you want a Berner of your own, make sure to buy a puppy from one of the best Bernese Mountain Dog breeders in the States.
Related: 44 Bernese Mountain Dog mixes – coolest hybrids of all time?
18. The Catahoula Leopard Dog
One of the more obscure breeds on the list of cool dog breeds is the Catahoula Leopard Dog (also known as just the Leopard Hound) – a breed that is believed to have originated in the 1700s in Catahoula, Louisiana.
Why Leopard Hounds Are Cool
Apart from having one of the coolest sounding names in the canine world, the Catahoula Leopard Dog also has one of the most unique-looking coat patterns that resembles a Leopard’s spotted coat – and they come in six different coat colors.
Temperament-wise, Catahoula Leopard Dogs are gentle, affectionate, and playful with their owner, but are also wary toward strangers if not properly socialized early on – on the other hand, they’re territorial and protective of their owner, which makes them excellent watchdogs and guard dogs.
Catahoula Leopard Dogs are very intelligent dogs that need firm, patient, and consistent training in order to develop into well-rounded adult dogs – they’re also highly energetic dogs that need ample amounts of daily exercise.
Related: The Catahoula Pit mix – a crossbreed you’ve probably never heard of.
17. The Dachshund
The Dachshund is a small dog breed that originated in the 1700s in Germany – it was primarily used to hunt badgers, and that’s how it got its name, which, in German, means “badger dog”.
Why Doxies Are Cool
The coolest and most recognizable feature of the Dachshund is its physical appearance – its short legs combined with a lengthy body have earned this breed the nickname “wiener dog”.
Standing at just eight to nine inches tall, Dachshunds are one of the weirdest and coolest-looking dog breeds in the world, but they’re also one of the clingiest dog breeds.
Temperament-wise, both male and female Dachshunds are playful, loyal, and affectionate dogs that also have a mischievous side – they’re a clever and stubborn breed that loves to cause all sorts of trouble and loves to bark a lot.
Dachshunds come in eight different coat colors and markings, the coolest of which has to be the dapple Dachshund (along with being the funnest one to pronounce).
Related: 22 Dachshund mixes – the most adorable hybrids you’ve ever seen.
16. The Corgi
The Corgi is considered to be among the cool dog breeds by its own merit, but being a long-time favorite of Queen Elizabeth II (who obviously thinks they’re cool) makes the Corgi even cooler.
Why Corgis Are Cool
Similar in stature to the Dachshund, albeit with a lot more fur covering their curvy body, Corgis are cool because they are laid-back, playful, friendly, affectionate, and goofy dogs.
If you’ve ever seen the Corgi twerk, you know exactly what we mean when we say that they’re as cool as dogs can get.
There are two main types of Corgis, and both types come in five different colors and markings – the coolest and cutest of which is the brindle Corgi.
Temperament-wise, both male and female Corgis are gentle, playful, intelligent, and obedient dogs that are easy to train, and are able to get along well with other pets in the house – the only potential downside to the breed is that they’re known to shed a lot.
Related: 34 Adorable Corgi mixes – hybrids that’ll leave you in awe.
15. The Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested dog is one of the few hairless dog breeds in the world, along with consistently being ranked among the ugliest dog breeds – in fact, more than nine Chinese Crested dogs have won first place in the World’s Ugliest Dog contest to date.
Why Chinese Crested Are Cool
Apart from having almost no hair present on their body, except for a lot of it on top of their head, which is as cool as you can get if you ask me – the Chinese Crested dog is cool because of its amiable temperament and great lap-warming skills.
They’re great family dogs because of their affectionate nature – so affectionate, in fact, that they can become quite clingy.
Chinese Crested Dogs love their owners so much that they almost never want to leave their side – so, if you’re not prepared for a puppy that will likely follow you even into the bathroom, this breed might not be the right one for you.
14. The Pug
Another Chinese dog breed that deserves a spot on the list of cool dog breeds is the Pug – an ancient breed whose origins can be traced back to as far as 400 BC.
Why Pugs Are Cool
It’s safe to say that we don’t have to explain why Pugs are one of the coolest cool dog breeds, but we’ll do it anyway.
Their adorable squished face, tiny, barrel-shaped body, and distinguishable short tail that curves up and over their back are just a few physical traits that make Pugs so adorable and cool.
This expensive breed is one of the most popular choices for families all around the world because it’s such a friendly, affectionate, and laid-back couch potato.
Another cool fact about Pugs is that they come in more than 11 different coat colors and markings, the coolest of which are the Chocolate Pug and the Panda Pug.
If you want a Pug of your own, make sure to source your new Puggy from the best Pug breeders in the U.S.
Related: 50 Pug mixes – the cutest crosses you’re going to love.
13. The Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is a large dog that originated in Germany in the late 1800s – it was developed by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann (whom the breed was obviously named after) as a working dog and a guard dog.
Why Dobies Are Cool
The coolest thing about Doberman Pinschers is their intimidating appearance coupled with their admirable intelligence… traits that make them the ultimate guard dog – no burglar has ever tried to outsmart a Doberman and gotten away with it.
Doberman Pinschers are versatile dogs that are used for many different purposes, from military and police work like bomb detection and search and rescue, to therapy and assistance work – there’s nothing a purebred Doberman can’t do, and that’s why they’re the coolest.
Although they’re iconic for their classic black and rust coat color, Dobies come in nine different coat colors – the coolest and rarest ones of all being the white Dobie and the black Dobie.
Beware of breeders who advertise their dogs as “Warlock Dobermans”. These dogs are not enhanced in any way, and are not purebred – most of them are crosses between the Doberman and the Great Dane or the Rottweiler.
If you want a purebred Doberman puppy of your own, source your pup from one of the most reputable and reliable Doberman breeders in the U.S.
Related: 33 Doberman mixes you need to see to believe are real.
12. The Xoloitzcuintli
Also known as the Mexican Hairless Dog, the Xoloitzcuintli (or Xolo, for short) is another hairless dog breed whose ancestry dates back to at least 3500 years ago to the ancient Aztecs – it was named after the Aztec god of lightning and fire, Xolotl, with the suffix “izcuintli” meaning dog.
Why Xolos Are Cool
Apart from having the coolest name out of all the cool dog breeds, Xolos are cool because they’re completely hairless – and unlike the Chinese Crested, which is a small breed, the Xolo is a medium-sized breed that was used primarily as a companion dog and watchdog.
This hairless Mexican dog breed comes in 14 different colors and patterns, which is unusual for a dog that has no actual coat to speak of – they’re also quite a rare find.
Temperament-wise, Xolos are known to be calm, intelligent, and cheerful, but are also alert and protective dogs that make excellent watchdogs.
The Aztecs believed that Xolotl, the god of fire and lighting, had the body of a man and the head of a dog that resembled the Xolo dog – what’s cooler than owning an ancient hairless breed that shares both the name and the likeness of a god?
This unique breed is sure to turn a lot of heads wherever it goes, and it is guaranteed to garner a lot of compliments on the way.
That said, one downside to owning a Xolo is that they’re sensitive to cold weather due to their lack of fur, so prospective Xolo owners should consider purchasing a warm and comfortable doggy sweater if they live in a colder climate.
If you want to stand out from the bunch and buy a Xolo, make sure to source your new hairless puppy from one of the best Xoloitzcuintli breeders in the U.S.
11. The Pomeranian
The Pomeranian is undoubtedly one of the cutest and most popular small fluffy dog breeds – it originated in the 17th century in Germany and Poland, and is believed to have been developed from larger Spitz-type dogs like the German Spitz.
Why Poms Are Cool
Apart from being adorable toy dogs that possess enviable lap-warming skills, Pomeranians are affectionate, playful, goofy, friendly, and active dogs that enjoy the company of humans more than anything in the world.
This charming dog breed comes in 25 different colors and patterns – the most popular and most common one being the red Pom, and the rarest of all being the lavender Pomeranian and the merle Pomeranian.
Tempremanet-wise, both male and female Pomeranians are sociable, energetic, and affectionate dogs that love to be the center of attention – in fact, they love it so much that they’ll often bark, yip, nudge, and nip at their owner just to get their attention back on them.
Another cool fact about Poms is that even though they stand at a mere 11 inches in adulthood, they are known to be alert and fearless watchdogs – an even cooler fact is that breeders have developed an even smaller and cuter version of the breed, called the Teacup Pom.
However, Pomeranians require lots of attention, grooming, and proper nutrition in order to stay healthy both mentally and physically – if you’re not prepared to handle their clinginess and frequent barking, you should consider another breed.
However, if you think you can take on this charming, but high-maintenance breed, make sure to source your new Pom from one of the best Pomeranian breeders in the U.S. – if you want to adopt instead of shop, check out some of the best Pomeranian rescues for adoption in the U.S.
Related: Corgi Pomeranian mix – is this the cutest crossbreed ever?
10. The Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback (also known as the African Lion Dog) is one of those cool dog breeds that have a distinct physical trait that separates them from other breeds – the characteristic ridge on their back is the staple of this breed, and it’s actually hair that grows along their spine in the opposite direction compared to the rest of their body.
Why Ridgebacks are Cool
Apart from their distinctive ridge, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are cool because they were originally bred as hunting dogs that were used to hunt big game, such as lions – yes, you read that right… lions.
What’s cooler than being bred for the purpose of helping humans take down a predator that’s three times larger than you?
However, due to their innate hunting instincts, Rhodesian Ridgebacks still retain a high prey drive – therefore, proper training and socialization are key in order to teach these dogs how to behave properly toward other animals in the house.
This short-coated breed comes in nine different coat colors, the coolest of which is definitely the silver and gray Ridgeback.
If you want to own this unique breed, make sure to buy a puppy from one of the best Rhodesian Ridgeback breeders in the U.S.
Related: 15 Rhodesian Ridgeback mixes – are hybrids better than purebreds?
9. The Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable dog breeds in the world, in addition to being one of the cool dog breeds.
The breed originated in Siberia, and was originally used as a sled-pulling dog by the Chukchi people of eastern Siberia.
Why Huskies Are Cool
Siberian Huskies are famously known for their characteristic wolf-like howling, and although they often howl during nighttime, Huskies are also avid barkers during the daytime.
Siberian Huskies come in various coat colors and coat patterns, including the gorgeous, rarely-seen brown Siberian Husky.
Temperament-wise, both male and female Siberian Huskies are intelligent, loyal, affectionate, outgoing, and friendly dogs that mesh well with other dogs in the house, which makes an ideal choice for families who already have pet dogs.
Although they’re not hypoallergenic, Siberian Huskies are medium-shedding dogs that only shed heavily twice per year when they blow their coat.
If you want a Siberian Husky of your own, make sure to purchase your new puppy from one of the best Siberian Husky breeders in the U.S.
8. The Schnauzer
The Schnauzer is another cool dog breed that has a trademark look – it originated in Germany sometime between the 14th and 16th centuries, and was developed as a rat-hunting dog.
Why Schnauzers Are Cool
The coolest physical trait of this breed is its characteristic beard, which makes it look like a wise old man who was reincarnated as a dog.
Temperament-wise, the coolest thing about Schnauzers is their intelligence, friendliness, and obedience – all of which make them ideal family dogs.
This hypoallergenic breed has a double coat that comes in 19 different colors and markings – the coolest of which is the phantom Schnauzer.
If you want to buy a Schnauzer puppy, check out some of the best standard Schnauzer breeders in the U.S. – but if you’re looking for a smaller version of the breed, check out the best Miniature Schnauzer breeders in the U.S.
7. The Tibetan Mastiff
Native to the Himalayan mountains of the Tibetan plateau in China, the gigantic Tibetan Mastiff is one of the largest and oldest breeds of dog in the world – in addition to being one of the most expensive dog breeds.
Why Tibetan Mastiffs Are Cool
One look at this enormous and fluffy dog breed is enough to understand why they’re one of the coolest cool dog breeds.
This giant breed is calm, affectionate, and friendly with its loved ones, and is also very protective – Tibetan Mastiffs will never allow a stranger to enter the home – which is why they’re a good family guard dog for people who can handle them.
Temperament-wise, this dog breed is intelligent and very gentle toward its owner, but they’re also known to be self-willed and stubborn – they should be properly trained and socialized early on so that they can be kept in check.
Apart from its massive and powerful build, which only adds to its fierce appearance, the Tibetan Mastiff possesses a dense and wooly double-coat that resembles a lion’s mane – regular grooming and bathing are essential in order to keep a Tibetan Mastiff’s coat healthy.
Needless to say, these behemoths are not a good choice for first-time dog owners since they can sometimes be a handful even for some experienced canine enthusiasts – in addition to that, they’re also expensive to purchase and keep.
Purebred Tibetan Mastiff puppies in the U.S. cost anywhere between $2,000 and $12,000 depending on various factors – but the most expensive Tibetan Mastiff, and the current record-holder for the most expensive dog in the world, was sold for a staggering $1.95 million.
Want to own a Tibetan Mastiff, but don’t know where to find a good breeder? We’ve got you covered with our list of the best Tibetan Mastiff breeders in the U.S.
6. The Treeing Tennessee Brindle
Another obscure breed that deserves to be on the list of cool dog breeds is the Treeing Tennessee Brindle – it originated in Tennessee, and was primarily used to hunt small to medium-sized game.
The term ‘treeing’ refers to a method of hunting where dogs are used to force animals to climb up into trees so that hunters can easily shoot them.
Why TTBs Are Cool
This unique dog breed is cool because of its intelligence, obedience, natural hunting skills, and great work ethic – all of which make it the perfect hunting companion.
Their coat is beautifully spotted, and comes in only two colors – brindle, and black and brindle.
Temperament-wise, Treeing Tennessee Brindles are affectionate and sensitive to their owner’s moods, but are also courageous and alert dogs that make excellent watchdogs.
When properly trained and socialized, these dogs are able to peacefully coexist with other dogs and small animals in the house.
If you manage to acquire this rare and sought-after breed, you might want to check out some of the best hunting dog names in order to give your new hunting companion a fitting name.
5. The Vizsla
The Vizsla is one of the nine dog breeds that originated in Hungary – its name means ‘pointer’ in Hungarian, and it’s believed to have originated sometime in the 9th century.
Why Vizslas Are Cool
Vizslas are highly energetic, active, courageous, alert, and obedient dogs that thrive when they have a job to do – this breed is not for owners who prefer a more laid-back and low-maintenance breed.
One cool fact about Vizslas is that they are an almost odor-free breed that cleans themselves frequently, so Vizsla owners only need to bathe their dogs occasionally.
A large breed, Vizslas can grow to 24 inches at the withers, and weigh up to 54 pounds, which is why prospective Vizsla owners might want to keep a Vizsla growth chart handy in order to keep track of their puppy’s developmental progress.
Related: 16 Vizsla mixes – are they cooler than their parents?
4. The Cane Corso
One of the largest, most intimidating, most expensive, and cool dog breeds – the Cane Corso is an Italian dog breed that was developed to be a guard dog and a working dog.
Why Cane Corsos Are Cool
Like other large breeds, one look at the massive Cane Corso is all that you need in order to realize why they’re one of the coolest cool dog breeds in the world.
Apart from its impressive stature and formidable presence, the Cane Corso is an ancient breed that was also used as a war dog by the ancient Greeks, Romans, and Persians – what’s cooler than owning an ancient war dog/personal protector?
Temperament-wise, both male and female Cani Corsi are affectionate, calm, and friendly toward their immediate family, which makes them good family dogs – but, just because they’re loving toward their owner doesn’t mean that this breed is friendly to everyone.
Cani Corsi are known for their protectiveness and their guard-dog instincts – these dogs will gladly give their life if it means that their owner will be safe.
However, this breed is one of the most expensive breeds to purchase and keep. They can eat a lot, and should be fed a proper diet. They are known to suffer from several health issues – which is why vet bills and food bills can quickly rack up.
If you want your own gentle giant, make sure to buy a puppy from one of the best Cane Corso breeders in the U.S. – you might also want to check out the Cane Corso growth chart and Cane Corso feeding chart in order to be prepared for your puppy’s arrival.
3. The Basenji
The Basenji is one of the oldest extant dog breeds in the world, and it is believed to have originated in ancient Africa – it’s also known as the Barkless dog since it can only vocalize a yodel-like sound due to its unusually shaped larynx.
Why Basenjis Are Cool
The coolest thing about the Basenji is that its ancestors were some of the first dogs to ever be domesticated.
The Basenji is still very genetically different from most modern dogs that were derived from extensive crossbreeding over the centuries – which is why scientists have mapped the genome of the Basenji in hopes of further understanding the domestication and subsequent evolution of modern dog breeds.
Temperament-wise, Basenjis are affectionate and protective of their loved ones, but they can also sometimes be aloof or even mischievous due to their ingrained hunting instincts – in fact, Basenjis are among the few dog breeds that love being escape artists, and they will often look for ways to jump the fence to go out and explore on their own.
One interesting thing to note is that even though they’re a highly active breed, Basenjis need very little maintenance grooming-wise – this breed is known for its cat-like behavior of self-grooming and cleaning – how cool can a dog get?
However, just because cats are better than most dogs at maintaining their personal hygiene doesn’t mean that they’re better at other things. Still not convinced? Check out our article on the 13 undeniable reasons why dogs are better than cats – and then get back to us.
2. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a toy dog breed that originated in the early 1900s in England – it was primarily developed to be a lap dog for British royalty, and it is still hard at work in people’s laps today.
Why Cavs Are Cool
With their tiny size and long, fluffy ears, Cavs are one of the most adorable toy dogs anyone could ask for – they love being around humans, and are generally friendly, affectionate, calm, obedient, and eager to please.
They come in more than 10 coat colors and markings – the cutest and coolest of which are the ruby and chocolate Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.
They also come in a smaller version, called the Teacup Cavalier King Charles Spaniel – and you thought they couldn’t get any cuter.
Cavs are a generally healthy dog breed that are prone to only a few health problems, and they have a longer average lifespan than some other small breeds.
If you’re interested in owning a Cav puppy, make sure to buy a pup from one of the best Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeders in the U.S.
Related: 40 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel mixes
1. The American Bully
The American Bully is a relatively new dog breed that was developed in the United States by crossbreeding American Pit Bull Terriers with American Staffordshire Terriers.
Why Bullies Are Cool
Apart from being one of the youngest designer breeds in the world, the American Bully is cool because it has all the best qualities of both of its parent breeds – an intimidating and powerful dog, the American Bully is the ultimate personal protector.
Contrary to popular belief that Pitbull-type dogs are aggressive by nature, American Bullies are well-tempered dogs that are affectionate toward their owner, and get along well with kids when properly socialized and trained.
This breed is energetic, but not as demanding as its parent breeds – most American Bullies are satisfied with moderate amounts of exercise.
However, this breed is quite expensive to buy and keep since it can grow large and is prone to several health problems.
Prospective Bully owners can choose between six main types, which include the pocket Bully, the standard Bully, the classic Bully, the XL Bully, the exotic Bully, and the extreme American Bully – phew… that’s a lot of Bullies.
Out of all possible Pitbull colors, these dogs come in nine different colors – the rarest and coolest of which are the blue American Bully and the panther-like black American Bully.
If you want a Bully of your own, make sure to purchase your new puppy from one of the best American Bully breeders in the U.S.
Related: 5 American Bully mixes – rare and new hybrids you’ve never seen before.
In Conclusion
Now that we’ve finally covered the coolest of all the cool dog breeds in the world, you’re bound to have an easier time picking a breed that’s as cool as you are.
Just remember that coolness is a relative term, and that every dog has its own quirks – make sure to do your research and weigh the pros and cons of each individual breed before you decide to commit to a puppy.
When you do decide on a breed, make sure to buy a puppy from a reputable and reliable breeder who knows what they’re doing in order to save both yourself and your puppy a lot of heartbreak and vet bills down the line.
If you’re not the type of person who wants to buy a puppy, you can always opt to adopt – get in touch with your local animal rescue shelter or find one online in order to adopt a puppy that’s in need of a new forever home.
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