I have put together 11 breeds that many people call out as especially “human-looking,” for one reason or another.
#1 Pug
Pugs are an ancient breed, with a history that dates back over 2,000 years. The breed was originally bred by Chinese royalty, and later spread to other parts of Asia.
They have wrinkled faces because Chinese breeders purposely bred them that way. Pugs are easygoing, calm, and quiet, but can be somewhat mischievous.
They enjoy company and can be quite affectionate.
#2 Boxer
The Boxer is one of my favorite dog breeds and is a medium to large-sized dog breed known for its intense attachment to its owners, innate intelligence, and clownish sense of humor.
They take the jobs of watchdog and family guardian seriously. Boxer dogs are also known for their incredibly expressive faces.
#3 French Bulldog
The French bulldog is a mid-sized member of the non-sporting group. The breed began as a smaller version of the English Bulldog in the 1800s. The head is square and large, with heavy wrinkles rolled above the short nose.
They are playful and fun-loving dogs who love spending time with their owners. French Bulldogs are eager to please and enjoy being the center of attention.
#4 Boston Terrier
Boston Terriers, affectionately known as the “American gentleman,” have a square head and a very expressive, cute face. The breed was the first dog breed developed in the United States.
They became the official state dog of Massachusetts on May 14, 1979. The breed tends to be aloof toward strangers.
#5 Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus are small, compact dogs known for their silky double coats. I think it is interesting that this gives the impression of being part of royalty.
Shih Tzu make great pint-sized playmates. The name Shih Tzu comes from a Chinese word that means “lion.” The Shih Tzu’s big, round eyes, flat face, and short nose make them somehow look like humans.
#6 Cocker Spaniel
Cocker Spaniels are medium-sized dogs known for their playful nature. They were originally bred as hunting dogs in the UK.
You probably like them for their dreamy eyes and impish personality. So, Cocker Spaniels can easily pass for humans in expression.
Editor’s Pick
#7 German Shepherd
German Shepherds are smart and well-mannered, acting as an excellent guard and family dog. Their personalities are distinctly direct and fearless. They were originally bred for herding sheep.
#8 Siberian Husky
The Siberian Husky is a medium-sized working breed. It was first bred to pull a sled.
I love the Siberian Huskies’ howl, which can be heard over long distances. Huskies are also known for having light-blue, green, or mismatched eyes.
#9 Basenji
Basenjis are high-spirited and endlessly curious, and stand 16–17 inches at the shoulder. The head is wrinkled around the forehead.
They are intelligent, alert, and highly independent dogs. Basenjis are more feral than most domestic dogs and are protective of their families. The basenji can be fiercely protective of their families.
#10 Golden Retriever
Goldens are considered a medium-sized dog breed, and are great family pets for households and individuals. They are used as guide dogs due to their friendliness towards people. Because they are intelligent dogs, Retrievers can get bored easily.
#11 Shar Pei
Shar-Pei is a breed of medium-sized dog noted for its wrinkles. They were originally bred for hunting, herding, and guarding. They’re often suspicious of strangers and other animals. Shar Peis tend to be serious and not excessively playful.
#12 Brussels Griffon
Brussels Griffons are lively, intelligent, and sensitive, and were developed through eight crosses to English Toy Spaniels and three crosses to Pugs.
They have big, expressive personalities. Brussels Griffons are devoted and loyal to their families and form strong bonds with their owners.
#13 Pekingese
They are dense little dogs that stand 6 to 9 inches high and weigh up to 14 pounds. Pekingese are an ancient breed that originated in China. These dogs have long bodies with limbs somewhat bowed.
They have surprisingly stocky and muscular bodies beneath their fur. Pekingese are known as ‘lion dogs’ because of all their fur.
#14 Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is a sleek, agile, and powerful dog. They do well in an active home where they can use their intelligence.
Doberman Pinschers are excellent family companions and protectors, and excel in problem-solving and working roles. They stand 24 to 28 inches tall and weigh around 60 to 75 pounds.
#15 Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The King Charles Spaniel, or ‘Charlie,’ is a small and attractive dog and a popular family dog due to its small size and love of people. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel also has a way of looking strikingly human.