7 Dogs That Look Like Horses (Or Kind Of)

Yep. You’re right. It’s a bit of an odd thing to think about. Dogs that look like horses. After all, horses (in comparison to tiny types of Chihuahuas) are enormous, muscular, hairy, and come in all types of colors.

But even if it is odd, there are a surprising amount of canines that have something horsey about them. Some of them are large like a horse, others have a horse-shaped head, and some even have a mane!

And, whilst it goes without saying that you should never ride a dog, some of these pups love to go on long walks, hang out in fields, and have plenty of strokes – just like a horse.

Let us know in the comments section which dog you think looks most like a horse!

7 Dogs That Look Like Horses

So, we’re not saying these canines could actually pass as horses. Some of them may need you to use your imagination a little. But they certainly have a somewhat horsey ‘thing’ about them.

#1 Great Dane

The first on the list is the 5th largest dog breed in the world (according to Forbes). So one of the closest we’re going to get to a horse in size. These big dogs may be intimidating, but they’re actually real gentle giants.

They’re very loyal and affectionate and get on well with children too – although care should be taken when playing as their size can get in the way!

Unlike horses, Great Danes don’t need huge amounts of exercise every day. They’ll be happier roaming a field rather than going for long country runs.

These dogs often have pointed ears, a long and strong neck, and sloping shoulders which add to their horse-like appearance. There are also lots of Great Dane colors and some of them are very similar to those of horses.

#2 Irish Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is one of the most dignified of all the giant breeds. These huge dogs are very impressive if you’re lucky enough to see one. They have a shaggy gray coat and an athletic and strong body – not dissimilar to a horse.

As their name would indicate, these enormous dogs were first bred to help hunters and farmers protect their flocks against wolves. As a sighthound, they have a big prey drive and can spot prey far away.

These amazing Irish Dogs are patient, sweet-natured, and intelligent. They make good family pets for those who have the space and are looking for a loyal hunting companion.

#3 Bull Terrier

The adorable Bull Terrier might not be the first pup you think of when it comes to dogs that look like horses. However, their distinct egg-shaped head definitely has something horsey about it.

Just like a horse, their nose curves outwards and they have pointed ears which definitely gives them a horse-like head silhouette. These dogs also have compact and muscular bodies which (on a much smaller scale) are not dissimilar to those of a horse.

Bull Terriers are mischievous dogs that love playing and spending time with their families. They have great personalities and need lots of affection and time dedicated to playing. They need quite a lot of exercise and, in typical Terrier form, enjoy having a job to fulfill

#4 Chinese Crested Dog

The Chinese Crested Dog is unlike any other in the canine world. Famous for being a hypoallergenic breed, these pups are popular with dog lovers in many countires. These tiny dogs can have two types of coat – hairless and powderpuff.

The hairless variety, which isn’t actually hairless, looks most like a miniature horse. Hairless Chinese Crested Dogs still have a kind of mane, a plumed tail, and adorable hairy socks that kind of resemble those of a pack horse.

Chinese Crested Dogs are cute, friendly, and love spending time with their family. Care should always be taken when playing with other dogs and children as their size means they can easily get injured.

#5 Greyhound

Greyhounds are regal and one of the most iconic English dog breeds there is. They’re also exceptionally fast and are one of the most famous racing dogs around the world. These skinny pups are very sweet-natured, gentle, and a little reserved.

They have strong, athletic bodies that have a prominent S shape, resembling that of a horse. Greyhounds have short and compact coats, not dissimilar to a horse’s, and they can be in many different colors.

These amazing dogs have long been favorites amongst kings throughout Europe. They’re excellent hunters (and have strong prey drives so should always be on a leash) but are also great companion dogs.

#6 Afghan Hound

Afghan Hounds are undoubtedly one of the prettiest dog breeds in the world. Just look at that amazing coat! Under all that incredible hair, these dogs actually have very athletic and slim bodies – not that you’d know it.

Afghan Hounds are wonderful hunters and were bred to chase quick prey in the mountains of Afghanistan. They’re loyal and work closely with the owner when they need to, but they do also have an independent streak.

As with other sighthounds, it’s important to allow them to play in fenced-in areas and keep them on a leash.

These dogs aren’t just on this list because their silky coats resemble a horse’s mane. They’re also quick like horses and have a distinctly long nose which could be compared to a pony’s.

#7 Saluki

The Saluki is a very impressive dog that can run up to 43 km an hour! Really! These wonderful, gracious, and quick-footed dogs have amazing personalities and are definite horse look-alikes.

Salukis are very affectionate with their owners and get on well with children that they’ve grown up with. They’re happy to accompany you on long walks or play in a dog park. As sighthounds, they too, shouldn’t be allowed to chase after prey – they really will fly and you don’t want to be attempting to run 43 km per hour!

Salukis get on well with other dogs too, although they can be a bit reserved to begin with. With plenty of encouragement, they’ll warm up soon enough.

These dogs can have many horse-colored coats such as chocolate, black, and cream. Their hairy ears, in a certain light, can also look somewhat like the mane of a well-groomed horse. They, too, have long noses.

And there you are! 7 wonderful dogs that look like horses. As you can see, some are small, others are very big and some even have a mane! Which do you think looks most like a horse?

If you liked this blog, you might also enjoy our article about dogs that look like foxes!