10 Most Popular Wire-Haired Dog Breeds

Have you ever dreamed of curling up on the couch next to a sweet, loveable pup—with wiry hair? Wire-haired dogs may not scream “soft and cuddly,” but for the most part, these funny-furred dogs have coats that are soft to the touch and not rough or scratchy. And they account for some of the world’s most popular dog breeds.

Thanks to their crinkly coats, many wire-haired dog breeds have other distinctive features, such as bushy eyebrows, beards, and mustaches. But these working dogs weren’t bred for beauty contests—most of them were working dogs, used for hunting rodents or larger prey. Their wiry coats made them more resistant to the thorns and branches they encountered when chasing their quarry through the underbrush, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).

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Like many curly-haired dogs, wire-haired breeds are mostly hypoallergenic dogs. While they may not be 100 percent allergy-proof for allergy sufferers, they’re generally low shedders and don’t give off much dander. To keep their coats looking sharp, most wire-haired dogs require hand-stripping of their dead hair. Many owners leave this to a professional groomer, though it can be done at home. It can also be skipped if you don’t mind a dullish coat during certain times of the year.

Here’s a look at some of the most popular wire-haired dog breeds, plus a few you may be less familiar with. Remember, when it’s time to add a new pet to your family, first check your local animal shelters or breed-specific rescue groups for a homeless pup waiting to be adopted.