Most attractive dog breeds: ‘Golden ratio’ mathematical proportions determine most aesthetically pleasing pups
See if your dog is one of the most attractive breeds according to the ‘golden ratio’ using mathematical proportions to determine how aesthetically pleasing a face is.
As the weather improves and the days get longer, many families are considering getting a new pet. And for those taking aesthetics into consideration, the ‘golden ratio’ could help them decide which dog breed to opt for.
As searches for “Battersea Dogs Home” have increased by more than 5,000%, and “pets 4 homes” by 2,850% within the last three months in the UK it’s clear, now is a popular time to get a puppy.
With that in mind, experts at McLuck employed the golden ratio, a mathematical proportion used since ancient Greek times to determine aesthetically pleasing beauty, to uncover which dog breeds are scientifically the most attractive.
Cairn Terrier and West Highland White Terrier rank as the top two most attractive dogs, according to the golden ratio, with six out of 10 of the most attractive dog breeds originating from the UK. Of all dog breeds analysed, the Shih Tzu is considered the least attractive. Read on to see if the pooch you’ve been coveting makes the list.
Top 10 most attractive dog breeds, according to science
- Cairn Terrier: Average Golden Ratio Percentage 88.7%
- West Highland White Terrier: Average Golden Ratio Percentage 87.5%
- Border Collie: Average Golden Ratio Percentage 86.7%
- Rhodesian Ridgeback: Average Golden Ratio Percentage 86.0%
- Welsh Terrier: Average Golden Ratio Percentage 85.9%
- Weimaraner: Average Golden Ratio Percentage 85.6%
- Tolling Retriever: Average Golden Ratio Percentage 85.0%
- Italian Greyhound: Average Golden Ratio Percentage 84.9%
- Norfolk Terrier: Average Golden Ratio Percentage 84.3%
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Average Golden Ratio Percentage 83.9%
The Cairn Terrier is the dog breed that ranks as the most attractive, according to the golden ratio. Earning a golden ratio percentage of 88.7%, the Scottish dog easily steals the hearts of all dog-lovers with its adorable teddy-like face and pointy, fluffy ears.
Following in second is a close relative of the Cairn Terrier, also a Scottish breed, the West Highland White Terrier, with a golden ratio of 87.5%. Sharing a similar look of white fluffy fur, teddy-like face, and perky ears, the Westie has charmed owners for more than 300 years.
The Border Collie ranks third most attractive, with a golden ratio percentage of 86.7%. The iconic shepherding dogs are often known for their intelligence and receptiveness to training, but their black and white fur and striking eyes have also met the scientific standards of attractiveness.
The late Queen Elizabeth’s favourite dog breed, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, ranks the tenth most attractive dog breed with a golden ratio percentage of 83.9%. The short-legged and long-bodied herding dog has earned royal status, as well as rounded out the top ten most attractive dogs according to science. The smushy flat face of Shih Tzus are the least attractive of the 70 most popular dog breeds researched, with a golden ratio of only 40%.