Chinese Crested Dog

Someone who sees past the unconventional look fast, because underneath it I'm genuinely one of the most affectionate breeds going. I want blankets, sunscreen if I'm the hairless variety, and someone who defends my honour at the dog park. The looks are a conversation starter, not a flaw.

I'm either hairless with tufts in odd places or covered in a soft powder puff coat, and either way I fully commit to the bit. I climb onto laps like it's my constitutional right. My personality does considerably more work than my appearance ever will.

My exposed skin, if I'm the hairless variety, sunburns and gets dry easily, so sunscreen and moisturiser are real parts of my routine, not vanity. My teeth also tend to be a bit unusual and need proper dental care. Unconventional looks come with genuinely unconventional upkeep.

You don't flinch at first sight and you definitely don't let strangers make comments without a defence prepared. You keep up with sunscreen or coat care depending on which variety I am. And you love a dog for personality first, which, frankly, everyone should anyway.

I've represented my breed at actual ugly dog contests and, respectfully, won. I consider this less an insult and more a specialised skill set.

Swipe right. I'm unconventional, affectionate, and completely unbothered by your first impression.