RD.COM Dogs
Juliana LaBiancaUpdated: Mar. 21, 2024
When it comes to pups, the black and white color combo is an all-time classic.
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Why we love black and white dogs
Some of our favorite dogs are black and white. There are fire-fighting dalmatians, sled-pulling huskies, and sheep-herding border collies. And while we love these pups’ work ethics and demeanors, they’re also super cute. Ahead, we’ve found the coolest black and white dog breeds with a range of markings from spots to tuxedos. You’re going to wish you could snuggle them through the screen.
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Dalmatian
The Dalmatian is one of the most popular black and white dog breeds (although there are also brown varieties). Best known from Disney’s 1961 film 101 Dalmatians, these spotted pups are smart, outgoing, and athletic. Ever wonder why they’re associated with firehouses? In the early days of fire-fighting, dalmatians would accompany horse-drawn fire carriages in order to guard the horses. They were specially cut out for the job due to their stamina and their affinity for horses. Speaking of this cute breed with spots, here is what black spots on a dog’s tongue really mean.
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Boston terrier
These compact pups have a handsome “tuxedo” coat, which can be black and white, brindle, or seal. They are easy to train and are so well-mannered that they’ve earned the nickname “The American Gentleman” by the American Kennel Club. As indicated by their name, Boston terriers are perfectly suited for city life and make for good apartment dogs. They also require minimal grooming, which means you can spend less time brushing them and more time snuggling them.
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Border collie
Border collies are energetic—like, really energetic. A member of the herding group, these medium-sized dogs are intelligent, hard-working, and affectionate. Their coats come in a variety of colors, from black and white to blue merle and chocolate. They’re even one of the rare dog breeds with green eyes. Border collies make great family dogs, but potential owners should know that a walk around the block won’t cut it for a collie. These dogs need intense activities such as herding events, agility courses, and disc catching.
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Portuguese water dog
Another hard-working black and white dog breed, the Portuguese water dog was bred to be a fisherman’s helper. The curly-haired pups have non-shedding, hypoallergenic coats that come in several colors, including black and white and brown. Unsurprisingly, they love to swim, and their original tasks as fishing dogs were to herd fish into nets, retrieve lost tackles, and act as messengers between ships and the shore. “Porties” are still used in water rescues today.
Old English sheepdog
Just look at that face. The Old English sheepdog is the quintessential shaggy pup, known for its unkempt black and white coat and mellow nature. Don’t let this breed’s goofy, bear-like shuffle fool you; the sheepdog is a member of the herding group and requires regular exercise. They’re great with little ones and make reliable watchdogs. For more family-friendly pups, don’t miss the best dog breeds for kids.
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Siberian husky
The cold doesn’t bother these snow-loving dogs. Siberian huskies can have coats of black and white, as well as other colors such as red and white and grey and white. They’re an outgoing, mischievous breed that was originally used to pull sleds over frozen land. Because of that, prospective owners will need to provide them with a healthy dose of exercise (and probably an AC unit). Our favorite thing about huskies? They’re some of the cutest dogs with blue eyes.
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Cavalier King Charles spaniel
These regal pups are poised and playful. Members of the toy group, Cavaliers have stunning silky coats that come in a range of colors, including black and white, black and tan, and ruby. The breed is named after King Charles II, a monarch once described as “more concerned with breeding spaniels than ruling Britain.” Looking at these faces, who could blame him? If you’re a fan of small pups, check out these adorable teacup dog breeds.
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Great Dane
Great Danes are impressive in size and personality. These gentle giants can grow up to 32 inches tall and weigh up to 175 pounds. When standing on their hind legs, they’re taller than most humans. But don’t let their size fool you. Great Danes are friendly, patient, and good with kids. Their coats come in a range of colors and color combinations, with black and white being one of the most common. Here are more of the world’s biggest dog breeds.
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Alaskan Malamute
Similar in appearance to the Siberian husky, the Alaskan malamute is another working group dog that loves the cold. These pups were originally bred as Arctic sled dogs, and have a dense, waterproof coat that can come in a range of colors, including black and white. Malamutes need intense training, lest they overtake you as leader of your family “pack.” Despite their pushy spirit, they’re playful, affectionate, and great with kids.
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Japanese Chin
A member of the toy group, the Japanese Chin is one of the smallest black and white dog breeds on our list. With an average weight of 7 to 11 pounds, these tiny pups make the perfect indoor companions and are often described as cat-like dogs. Their coats come in black and white, lemon and white, and sable and white.
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Originally Published: March 21, 2024
Juliana LaBianca
Juliana is a lifestyle writer for RD.com covering home, holidays, fashion and beauty. She is based in New York City and spends most of her time trying new yoga classes and rearranging her tiny apartment.
