15 Adorable Flat-Faced Dog Breeds You’ll Love

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

Flat-Faced Dog
Goran Horvat/Pixabay

Flat-faced dogs, or brachycephalic breeds, are beloved for their unique, smushed faces and soulful eyes. These lovable pets are celebrated for their playful nature and warm, affectionate personalities. However, they need special care due to health challenges linked to their anatomy, such as breathing issues and sensitivity to heat. If you welcome one of these pups into your family, knowing their needs will help keep them happy and healthy. Here are 15 flat-faced dog breeds that you’ll love.

1. French Bulldog

Flat-Faced Dog
NAM PHONG BÙI/Pexels

French Bulldogs, often called Frenchies, are small dogs with big personalities. These dogs are ideal for apartment life, with their compact size and calm demeanor making them a great fit for smaller spaces. While Frenchies love short bursts of play, they are also happy to lounge around with you. They get along well with children and other pets because of their amiable nature. They may, however, be more susceptible to respiratory problems and allergies. Keeping your Frenchie cool during the summer months and getting frequent veterinary checkups are crucial for identifying any possible health problems early.

2. Pug

Flat-Faced Dog
Tobi Berger/Pixabay

Pugs are lovable with their wrinkled faces, curly tails, and playful nature. They enjoy being around people and are happiest when included in family activities. Your pug will love snuggling up after a short walk or playtime, but watch their weight since they can gain easily. Because of their short noses, pugs can have breathing issues, so gentle exercise and a cool space are important to keep them healthy and happy.

3. Shih Tzu

Flat-Faced Dog
Edyta Stawiarska/Pixabay

The Shih Tzu has a long, flowing coat, a happy disposition, and is a royal little friend. These dogs were developed for royalty and love to be spoiled by their owners. Gentle walks and mild fun will be cherished by your Shih Tzu. But, to maintain their coat in optimal condition, frequent grooming is essential. They can have respiratory problems, just like other flat-faced breeds; therefore, it is important to keep them comfortable and cool, especially during warmer months. They are ideal lap dogs who love to cuddle with you because of their affectionate disposition.

4. Boston Terrier

Flat-Faced Dog
Sean Brannon/Pexels

Boston Terriers, often called “American Gentlemen,” are lively, friendly, and smart dogs. They’re always up for fun, making them great companions for active people or families. Your Boston Terrier will enjoy running at the dog park or playing fetch in the yard, but keep an eye out for overheating during playtime. They also love mental challenges, so give them puzzle toys and training to keep them happy and engaged. With their tuxedo-like coats and lovable personalities, Boston Terriers are sure to win your heart.

5. English Bulldog

Flat-Faced Dog
Cyril/Pixabay

Despite their serious looks, English Bulldogs are loving and friendly pets. These gentle dogs enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, making them a great choice for families wanting a calm pet. Your Bulldog will love slow walks and lots of naps, but you’ll need to clean their facial wrinkles regularly. They can overheat easily, so it’s important to keep an eye on them in warm weather and give them plenty of cool water. With their loyal and snuggly nature, they’ll soon become your best friend.

6. Pekingese

Flat-Faced Dog
Elisabeth Fossum/Pexels

The Pekingese is a small dog with a big personality, famous for its long fur and proud look. Originally bred for Chinese royalty, these dogs are confident and graceful. They enjoy short walks and relaxing with you but need regular grooming to keep their coat nice. Because of their flat faces, they can have breathing issues, so it’s best to avoid heavy exercise and keep them cool. With their sweet nature, Pekingese make great lap dogs and love your attention.

7. Boxer

Flat-Faced Dog
boxerdogmadness/Pixabay

Boxers are playful, energetic dogs with a strong bond to their families. Your boxer will love joining you for outdoor adventures and thrives with plenty of exercise. But respiratory problems are common in them. Therefore, it’s essential to monitor their activity levels to prevent overexertion. Positive reinforcement training works best with boxers, as they respond well to praise and affection. These loyal dogs are excellent family pets, always ready to protect and entertain you.

8. Japanese Chin

Flat-Faced Dog
Goran Horvat/Pixabay

The Japanese Chin, a lovely companion, is distinguished by its expressive eyes, silky coat, and flat face. These canines are ideal lap companions because they are playful and like spending time in peace with their owners. Mental stimulation and leisurely walks will be appreciated by your Chin. Nevertheless, be careful not to subject your dog to prolonged exposure to heat or to physically demanding activities. Otherwise, respiratory problems may result.

9. Brussels Griffon

Flat-Faced Dog
Наталья Колобова/Pixabay

Brussels Griffons are small dogs with big personalities and expressive faces. These little charmers thrive on human companionship and love being the center of attention. Your Griffon will enjoy interactive play but needs careful handling due to their delicate build. Like other flat-faced breeds, they are prone to breathing difficulties. So moderate activity and cool environments are ideal. With their quirky antics and loving nature, Brussels Griffons make delightful pets for attentive owners.

10. Affenpinscher

Flat-Faced Dog
BodyCountDracula/Reddit

Affenpinschers, also known as “monkey dogs,” are playful and a little mischievous. These tiny dogs are brave and love to explore. They enjoy short walks and mental games but should avoid too much heat during play. Regular grooming keeps their scruffy look, and positive training helps their lively personality shine. Affenpinschers are loyal companions who will keep you entertained with their playful tricks.

11. Lhasa Apso

Flat-Faced Dog
Sonja Kalee/Pixabay

The Lhasa Apso is a small yet confident dog with a luxurious coat. Originally bred as a watchdog in Tibetan monasteries, these dogs are alert and loyal to their families. Your Lhasa will enjoy moderate exercise and quiet time at home. However, you need to keep their grooming needs in mind to ensure a healthy coat. These independent dogs can be wary of strangers but are affectionate with those they trust. With proper care, your Lhasa Apso will be a loving and devoted companion.

12. Dogue de Bordeaux

Flat-Faced Dog
Jan/Pixabay

The Dogue de Bordeaux is a large, powerful dog with a calm demeanor. These gentle giants form strong bonds with their families and thrive in homes with space to roam. Early socialization and training will help your dog learn excellent manners. While they enjoy moderate exercise, you will need to monitor their activity in order to avoid respiratory issues. If you have ample space at your home and want a pet that is adorable and social, this breed will make an excellent companion.

13. Bullmastiff

Flat-Faced Dog
Marcell Végh/Pixabay

Bullmastiffs are protective, affectionate dogs known for their loyalty. They love homes where they have a job to do, such as guarding your family. Your Bullmastiff will love daily walks and playtime but should avoid heavy exercise, as they can have breathing issues like other flat-faced dogs. Early training and socializing are important to help them become well-behaved companions. With good care, your Bullmastiff will be a loyal and loving friend.

14. Cane Corso

Flat-Faced Dog
Volker Eckner/Pixabay

Cane Corsos are intelligent, protective dogs with a strong work ethic. These large dogs thrive in environments where they can use their instincts. Your Cane Corso will benefit from regular training and mental challenges, as well as moderate exercise. They nevertheless need to be watched when engaging in vigorous activities, even if they are less likely to get respiratory problems than smaller flat-faced breeds. If you are a seasoned pet owner who can provide for their requirements, these devoted dogs make wonderful companions.

15. Chow Chow

Flat-Faced Dog
Marius-Kristensen/Pixabay

The characteristic features of Chow Chows, like their blue-black tongue and lion-like mane, are well-known. Although they can be distant from outsiders, these independent canines are devoted to their families. Your Chow will enjoy short walks and quiet time at home but needs regular grooming to maintain their thick coat. Due to their flat faces, they are prone to overheating. So it’s essential to keep them cool during hot weather. With proper care, Chow Chows make devoted companions who will offer you unwavering loyalty.

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