25 Black and White Dog Breeds (With Pictures!)
Dogs come in so many different colors – that’s one of the reasons we love them so much. For anyone who has ever watched 101 Dalmatians, it’s likely you have a particular love for black and white dogs. But apart from Pongo and Perdy, did you know that there are actually so many dogs with black and white markings? And not just spots!
Here are 25 of our favorite white and black dogs in all shapes and sizes. There really is a black and white dog for every family!
How To Choose The Best Black and White Dog for You
All dogs are beautiful. That’s a fact. And black and white dogs are particularly attractive. But color isn’t the only thing you should think about when choosing a dog. It’s really important that they fit in with your lifestyle.
Some of the pooches on this list need a lot of exercise and should only be part of an active family. Others are more relaxed and are happy to cuddle up on the couch with you. Some make good guard dogs and others don’t. It’s important you research the breed so you know exactly what you’re getting and whether you have the experience.
In addition to researching the breed, you also need to research the breeder. Avoid puppy farms and make sure your breeder is ethical and isn’t just breeding for coat color. They should only breed healthy dogs that will have healthy puppies. It’s not just good for the dogs, but it will also cost you less in vet bills.
25 Black and White Dogs That We Love
Some of these pups are iconic (hello Dalmatians) but some of them are relatively unknown. Some can only be black and white (actually not the Dalmatian, they can also be brown and white) and some can be multiple colors. Read on to see which we chose!
Dalmatian
Dalmatians are one of the most easily recognizable dogs in the world. Not only do they have a beautiful white coat with black (or brown) spots but there’s also such thing as the long-haired Dalmatian!
These dogs are elegant, graceful, and energetic. They need regular exercise and will enjoy running, swimming, and chasing a ball. These pups were originally coach dogs and used to run alongside carriages, so they have great stamina. Dalmatians shouldn’t be exercised too much when young as this can lead to joint issues.
They are affectionate with their families but can be reserved around young children and other dogs. Lots of early socialization and training sessions are essential for these intelligent dogs.
Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier, otherwise known as the “American Gentleman” is a great choice for people living in apartments or a city. They’re charming, versatile, and don’t need huge amounts of exercise. These pooches will be happy with a walk around the block or a quick runaround in a doggy park.
Boston Terriers are a good choice for first-time dog owners. They really want to please their owners and are happy to learn new things. Like all dogs, early socialization and regular training will help them to become well-behaved dogs. They can be sensitive, so lots of positive reinforcement is a good idea.
Great Dane
That’s right! This enormous pup can also be a black-and-white dog! Great Danes are one of the biggest dog breeds in the world. But, despite what many people think, these pups are very friendly and often get called gentle giants. They’re good-natured, calm, and get on well with other pups too.
Even though they’re big, they may not need as much exercise as you might think. A good long walk a day is usually enough to keep them happy. It’s really important that Great Dane puppies don’t do too much exercise as this can cause bone development problems.
Great Danes are sweet and affectionate dogs but they’re not a good choice for first-time owners. Their size can be a problem and they really need to be in a family with people with big dog experience.
Portuguese Water Dog
Portuguese Water Dogs are great family pets, especially for those living near water. These beautifully fluffy dogs are accepted by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 3 different colors – black, brown, and white. White markings are also allowed, making them white and black dogs!
These pups have very curly coats, not dissimilar to that of a Poodle. They’re considered hypoallergenic, so are a great choice for allergy sufferers. The coat of a Portuguese water dog can be groomed in two ways. They can either have a retriever cut which means it’s the same length all over, or the lion cut which is much shorter around the rear legs.
They’re friendly, boisterous, and very loveable. They need plenty of fun exercise – preferably around water!
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
These smaller dogs are another great choice for those living in cities. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a gentle-natured dog and very sweet. They get on well with children and other pups and can be quite silly at times. They love to play! They combine the relaxed nature of a toy breed with the outgoing nature and athleticism of a Spaniel.
It’s impossible to walk past a Cavalier and not want to stroke it. They’re so charming and have large, endearing eyes and the cutest ears of nearly any breed!
These pups benefit from a fenced-in backyard for them to play in. They’ll enjoy chasing after balls or playing with their favorite toy as exercise. When out and about, it’s best to keep them on a leash. They still have quite a strong prey drive and will like chasing after smaller animals.
Border Collie
As one of the most intelligent breeds in the world, it’s no wonder Border Collies are such popular pooches. As well as being excellent herding dogs, they’re also amazing pets. They love to be part of a big pack and get on well with children and other dogs.
This dog breed is very active so they need a lot of daily exercise. They’re great jogging partners and enjoy taking part in most family activities. Because they’re so intelligent, you might want to think about enrolling them in doggie classes so they don’t get bored.
Originally bred in the borderlands between England and Scotland, these excellent sheepdogs can either have smooth or rough coats. It’s important to train them when young so that they don’t start herding their humans too.
French Bulldog
French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Anyone who’s ever been around a Frenchie will understand why. These pups are affectionate, funny, charming, and adorable.
Frenchies have robust bodies, short coats, and huge bat ears (which make them easily recognizable). The AKC accepts French Bulldogs with many different coat colors and markings, including black and white.
Frenchies are another popular breed for city-dwellers. They’re quiet but they are very alert, so they’re a good choice for small watchdogs. They don’t need a huge amount of exercise. A quick walk and some time chasing after a ball should be enough.
American Akita
American Akitas are muscular, large dogs that look like something between a fox and a bear. They’re a spitz-type breed, so have a tail that curls over their back. They also have really dense, fluffy fur which makes them look even more muscular.
Although beautiful, Akitas can be difficult for those without experience. They’re independent dogs and can be aloof. If you want to adopt a cuddly pup, an Akita isn’t the one for you. They do make excellent guard dogs though.
This breed doesn’t love being around other animals. They like having their owners all to themselves! These strong, Japanese dogs are very protective of the ones they love but aren’t the easiest dog to own.
Fox Terrier
As their name suggests, Fox Terriers were once the chosen breed on fox hunts in England. These dogs have the usual tenancy of a Terrier, along with a silly temperament and intelligence.
They’re eager to learn more and please their owners but they can have a short attention span. Make sure you reward them with treats and toys when they do something correctly to keep them engaged.
Fox Terriers have a wiry coat that needs regular brushing. If you intend to enter your pup into a show, you’ll need to have them professionally groomed so that its coat can be stripped. These pups usually have a little beard and longer hair on their legs.
American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire Terriers are confident and cuddly dogs. Despite their muscular bodies and their bad rep, AmStaffs are actually very affectionate dogs that make wonderful family pets. Training and early socialization are a must for these dogs.
These pups, like many other similar breeds, were first bred for bull and dog fighting. Unfortunately, they’re still a favorite breed for illegal dog fighting today. It’s therefore essential you get your dog from an accredited breeder who is breeding out aggression.
These dogs are very easy to groom and only require a light brushing once a week to remove any dirt and hair. They really make great family pets for the right owner!
Japanese Chin
These aristocratic dogs are happy, graceful, and very bright. They have large, plumed tails and a long coat that’s accepted in 6 different colors. Even though these dogs have long, silky coats, they don’t need that much grooming. Which is surprising! A weekly brush should keep them looking their best.
Because they’re small and don’t need a lot of exercise they’re a great choice for people living in apartments. A short walk or time playing in a fenced-in area will be enough to keep these little dogs happy.
Japanese Chins can be headstrong. It’s important they know from puppyhood who the real head of the house is. Training is crucial to keep them from becoming too confident.
Alaskan Klee Kai
These beautiful dogs look like smaller Huskies or Alaskan Malamutes. They’re energetic and need plenty of activities during the day to keep them entertained. They’re normally curious about their surroundings but can be reserved around people they don’t know.
They enjoy spending time with other canines thanks to their pack mentality. They are not, however, extremely affectionate with the people around them.
Alaskan Klee Kais have thick, double coats. That means they shed quite a lot. Regular brushing should keep most of the hair off your furniture. The AKC accepts them in three different colors, including black and white.
English Springer Spaniel
Many of us will think of Springer Spaniels when we think of black and white dog breeds. These adorable, excitable dogs are very loving and enjoy pleasing their owners. Their charming, and intelligent, and get on well with other canine friends.
Spaniels were bred as hunting dogs and so love to be out in the fields. They need a good amount of regular exercise to burn up some of that energy. They can be adaptable and live in apartments, although it’s essential you make sure they get enough exercise.
These beautiful companion dogs can have many different coat colors. In our opinion, the black and white coat is especially beautiful!
Cardigan Welsh Corgi
Everyone can recognize these wonderful, royal, and short-legged dogs! What many people don’t know, however, is that Cardigan Welsh Corgis are excellent herding pooches. For a long time, they were the herding breed of choice for British farmers.
Corgis have long bodies, short legs, and big pointy ears. They’re surprisingly strong and powerful and are great watchdogs. They’re very loyal pooches and love to spend time with the people around them.
Corgis have thick double coats and shed a lot. They need regular brushing and you can expect them to shed their beautiful black and white fur twice a year. They’re generally healthy dogs although hip evaluations are advised. It’s also worth checking for any back problems which can always be a problem for pups with longer spines and shorter legs.
Bearded Collie
Bearded Collies are wonderful dogs. They’re excellent working dogs and also great companions. If you adopt a Bearded Collie, you’ll be getting the best of both worlds!
Beardies were first bred in Scotland where they were very popular herding canines for years. And you’re not wrong – Bearded Collies do look a lot like Old English Sheepdogs. Bearded Collies, however, are a little more agile that their old English friends.
These dogs like a lot of outdoor exercise. They won’t be happy chasing after a ball in a backyard. These are dogs that like all weather conditions and need to be outdoors enjoying their environment daily.
These wonderful medium-sized dogs need lots of grooming. You’ll need to brush them daily to get rid of any dirt and tangles.
Chihuahua
Now for the smallest black and white dogs in the world. Chihuahuas are small dogs but with big dog personalities. They can be loud, and won’t mind yapping at dogs twice their size (or three times).
These very cute canines are another great choice for people living in apartments. They don’t need a lot of exercise and will be happy chasing their favorite toy indoors. It’s still important to take them for walks to socialize them so they can engage with their environment.
Chihuahuas can have many different coat colors and they can be short or long. They don’t require much grooming, although long-coated Chihuahuas will need some brushing.
Training this black and white breed is a must if they’re not to get too big for their little boots. It’s important that dog owners make training fun so that they enjoy it and don’t get bored.
Canaan Dog
Canaan dogs are not as well-known as other black and white dog breeds on this list. But they should be. These herding dogs are hard workers and enjoy the responsibility of having a job to do. They’re good herders and also make great guard dogs for livestock and property.
Like Border Collies and other herding pups, Canaan dogs have almost limitless energy supplies and seem to never get tired. They’re a good family dog for those with an active lifestyle and who like to go running or on hikes at the weekend.
Their coats can be many different colors but one of the most popular and common is black and white. They have a thick and coarse outer coat and a softer inner coat. So they will shed. Expect to brush these pups a couple of times a week to keep them looking sleek.
Tibetan Terrier
Tibetan Terriers are another lesser-known breed but they’re so cute! They almost look like a mix between an Old English Shepherd and a Japanese Chin. These pups are an ancient breed and were used in Tibet for centuries as guard dogs. They’re alert, intelligent, and can be a bit aloof around other animals and people they don’t know.
These terriers are also very affectionate with their family members and love to be at the heart of what’s going on. They’re charming, endearing, and very sweet.
One thing that makes Tibetan Terriers stand out is their wonderful coat. They have long and double coats which helped to keep them warm in the cold temperatures of Tibet. Their undercoat has a woolly texture and is resistant to water. Their outer coat can be prone to matting and will need regular brushing.
Old English Sheepdog
These shaggy pups are one of the cutest black and white dog breeds. Underneath all that beautiful hair and its iconic fringe is a strong and muscular body. Old English Sheepdogs were born for herding sheep in the fields and hills of England, but they are also great pets.
These active canine needs lots of diverse exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They’ll love playing with friends in the dog park or chasing their favorite toy in an open field. Luckily for future dog owners, these pups also like relaxing. As long as they get enough daily exercise, they won’t mind curling up on the couch and watching a movie.
Your dog will have a thick coat that needs regular grooming. It’s important to brush them a couple of times a week to stop mats from forming and to spread important oils. You should also keep the hair around their feet clipped to stop it from becoming a problem.
Italian Greyhound
Italian Greyhounds are very similar to regular Greyhounds – except for their size. These pups are much smaller but they’re just as elegant and cute. These slender pups are playful, affectionate, and very alert.
They’re popular mini dogs because of their endearing personalities and their minimal exercise needs. Although fast, these pups prefer a quick sprint to hours of running.
Just like their bigger cousins, Italian Greyhounds can be sensitive. Positive reinforcement is essential. You should also socialize them from an early age so they don’t become too timid around dogs and other people.
Italian Greyhounds can be many different colors and yours might have an unusual coat pattern. They don’t need to be groomed often, a quick brush every week is enough. It’s very important to clean this breed’s teeth, though.
Shih Tzu
Are you looking for a seriously cute, small dog breed that gets on well with all family members and other dogs? Then maybe you should adopt a Shih Tzu! These regal dogs were first bred for Chinese Emperors. Their name actually means ‘lion dog’ – and you can see why!
Shih Tzus are the definition of a lap dog. They love to spend time at home, relaxing, cuddling you, or socializing. They don’t need much exercise and will be happy with a short walk around the block.
There are 14 standard Shih Tzu colors. As you might imagine, you can expect to brush those beautiful locks every day. You will also need to clean their ears to prevent infection. Ask a vet or a groomer if you are unsure how.
Australian Cattle Dog
This breed is also known as a Blue or Red Heeler. They’re actually related to the famous Australian dingo! They’re very strong and powerful pups and are excellent herders. They need lots of regular outdoor exercise and are not a good choice if you live in an apartment. These pups want fields to play in.
All Heelers are born with white coats that then develop to have either blue or red markings. Whilst it might be called blue, the color is much more like dark gray/black.
Australian Cattle Dogs can easily get bored. It’s a good idea for them to attend canine classes such as agility and herding. It’s important their brains are also exercised so that they don’t become mischievous or aggressive. These dogs need an owner that can give them the exercise they need and manage their strong personalities.
Ariegeois
These dogs are not actually recognized by the AKC. They are, however, a beautiful black and white dog breed. You can tell from these dogs’ floppy ears and charismatic faces that they’re traditional French hounds. Ariegeois were first bred to hunt boar, deer, and other game in the region of Ariege in France.
This breed only has one coat color. They’ll have a white body with black patches (usually on their heads). They may also have some tanned markings like eyebrows. Their coats are short and fine and don’t need that much grooming. They shed moderately so brushing them twice a week is a good idea.
Because they’re designed for hunting, they need lots of exercise. They’ll be happiest being part of an outdoorsy family.
Alaskan Malamute
Alaskan Malamutes are one of the largest black and white dog breeds that we’ve chosen. Many confuse these spitz dogs with the Siberian Husky but Alaskan Malamutes are actually much bigger.
These dogs are hard workers and very strong. They’re famous for their sled-pulling abilities and can haul very heavy loads. They need a job to do and any future Malamute owner should remember that.
This breed is a pack dog at heart. They, therefore, need firm training so they know that you’re the leader. They work well as a group (especially when working) but can be reserved around dogs they don’t know.
They’re alert and exceptionally loyal and make good watchdogs. They need lots of daily exercise and will enjoy taking part in any outdoor activity. You need to take care in warm weather as these dogs were bred for ice and snow and can quickly overheat.
Borzoi
Borzois are very elegant and beautiful dogs. They look somewhat like a cross between an Afghan Hound and a Greyhound. The Russian Wolfhound, as they’re also called, are large sighthounds and incredible hunters.
Some Borzoi owners say this breed can be stubborn. You should, therefore, train these dogs regularly and keep the sessions short. Use lots of rewards and toys to keep it fun so that they engage.
The AKC accepts 18 different coat colors, many of which have white markings. Their long and silky hair will need daily brushing to keep them looking their best and to minimize the hair on your furniture. They’ll also blow their coats twice a year for the new season.
Black and white dogs come in all shapes and sizes. Some are amazing herders and others are happy spending much of the day relaxing on the couch.
You could get a large breed like the Great Dane or a tiny one like the Shih Tzu. The most important thing is that you get the right breed for your family and experience.
I’m Charlotte, a content and copywriter from the North of England and currently living in Berlin. Animals have always been a huge part of my life, so writing about dogs is a total pleasure! I love all kinds of dogs and their cheeky personalities, but I’d have to say Weimaraners are my favourite!
