Black and White Dog Breeds List
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The FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale), known in English as the International Canine Federation, recognizes more than 300 breeds of dog. They are grouped in many different ways, especially in size and purpose. The standard for each breed is set carefully, with particular attention paid to their coat colors and patterns. Black and white is a coat pattern which can appear in many different breeds, but some are more recognized for it than others.
At AnimalWised, we bring you our black and white dog breed list which provides photos and information of 15 of the most popular black and whites dogs.
- Dalmatian
- Border Collie
- Newfoundland
- French Bulldog
- Siberian Husky
- Spanish Water Dog
- Brittany
- Papillon
- Bernese Mountain Dog
- Shetland Sheepdog
- Other black and white dogs
1. Dalmatian
We start our list of black and white dog breeds with, perhaps, the most recognizable. The Dalmatian is famous for their white coat decorated liberally with black spots. Although black and white is the pattern we most associate with them, they can also have brown markings. These markings often cover their ears more than the rest of their body.
The Dalmatian is of Croatian origin and is an elegant breed with a very loyal character. They are friendly and confident, getting along well with other dogs and humans. They do not tolerate solitude, so they are only for families who can devote sufficient time to them.
Our related article on ideas for Dalmatian dog names can help if you have recently adopted a Dalmatian and are lacking inspiration.
2. Border Collie
The Border Collie, considered the most intelligent dog in the world[1], is medium-sized and officially recognized in the British Isles. Although black and white is popular, their coat pattern can be one of the following variations:
- Black and white
- Brown and white
- Black, brown and white
- White and tan
Border Collies can have both short and long hair, both of which can appear in black and white. Long haired Border Collies are quite fluffy and will need more attention to keep their coat in shape. It is vital this dog is kept well stimulated both mentally and physically.
3. Newfoundland
The Newfoundland dog is an impressive breed, not only because of their imposing giant size. The origin of the Newfoundland is located on Newfoundland Island, Canada. They are often employed as working dogs, especially as water rescue animals.
In reference to coat color, their hair can be black, white and black, or brown. They have a thick, medium length coat which helps protect them from the cold waters of their native land. Although it is one of the largest dog breeds, they are also one of the kindest and most amiable. In fact, they are one of the black and white dog breeds on this list most suitable for families with children.
4. French Bulldog
The coat of the medium-sized French bulldog is characterized by being short, fine and smooth. As well as black and white, their coat can be fawn, brindle, cream or black all over. The Black and white French Bulldog coat pattern is known as ‘pied’.
This breed is characterized by their peculiar physical appearance with bat ears and flattened face. However, they are also one of the most beautiful companion animals with a personality which never fails to endear. Unfortunately, they are also a breed commonly affected by certain health problems.
5. Siberian Husky
A popular fluffy black and white dog, the Siberian Husky originates from Asia, Europe and Russia. Their hair is long and doesn't only appear in black and white. It is most commonly black and white, but can also be copper and white, sable, all white or all black. The black and white coat patterns of the Siberian Husky vary. Some have a saddle of black on their back, black patches on the ears and eyes, piebald patterns or more.
Despite their thick double layered coat, the Siberian Husky can actually withstand fairly warm temperatures, unlike some other Husky dog breeds. They can be reticent with strangers, but they are incredibly loyal to their family. They need lots of exercise and a suitable diet to keep their coat in condition.
6. Spanish Water Dog
The Spanish water dog is medium in size and resembles the French Barbet in physical appearance. Their coat stands out for being long and curly. In terms of color, there are unicolor, bicolor and tricolor Spanish Water Dogs:
- Unicolor: white, black or brown.
- Bicolor: black and white or white and brown.
- Tricolor: black and tan or hazelnut and tan.
Their character is usually very docile and has great predisposition for learning. In addition, they are a very faithful dog. They can often be confused with other types of water dog.
7. Brittany
The Brittany is a French dog breed of medium size. The coat of the Brittany dog is very smooth, fine and they have thick bangs over their eyes. They can be black and white, but can also be orange and white, liver and white, or variations of roan.
The Britany is a breed that has a great capacity to adapt to a family environment. In addition, they are very active and will need sufficient exercise, with most individuals needing more than just walking to stay healthy. This means they require games and exercise with an active family.
8. Papillon
The Papillon is a small dog, their origin coming from France and Belgium. They are a dog with a fine and elegant appearance. As for their hair, it is long and can be black and white, brown, red or sable. Their body is white and the coloration appears in patches on their body and, especially, over their butterfly wing-like ears.
When it comes to character, the Papillon is a playful, intelligent and social dog. It is a breed with a high capacity to interact with humans and other animals. Although some think of them only as a lapdog, they very active and need plenty of walks and exercise.
9. Bernese Mountain Dog
The Bernese Mountain Dog is from Switzerland. They are one of the largest on our black and white dog breed list. Their coat is long, smooth and fluffy, noted for their beautiful markings. Said markings are usually black with white and a patch of tan.
Despite their size, the Bernese is very docile and loving. They are sociable and intelligent, but need plenty of exercise.
10. Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog (or Sheltie) was first recognized in Scotland and is a small, but very graceful dog. The colors ofits long, smooth and thick coat can be of different combinations:
- Sable (light gold to dark mahogany)
- Tricolor
- Blue black
- Black and white
- Black and tan
Black and white Shelties are known as bi-black in terms of coat color. They have an affectionate character, although can be closed-off to strangers. They are very loyal and intelligent, bucking the silly stereotypes many have for smaller dogs. If you are considering adopting a Sheltie, remember they need to be well socialized to reduce shyness.
Other black and white dogs
Before we share a few more, we should point out that the most common black and white dog breed is the mongrel. Mixed dog breeds often have black and white coats which don't need to confirm to any standard. They can come in almost any pattern and shape. If you are thinking of adopting a black and white puppy, please bear mixed-breed dogs in mind.
In terms of purebred dogs, we can find the following additional breeds:
- Landseer
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Beagle
- Parson Russell Terrier
- Jack Russell Terrier
If your favorite black and white dog breed has been left off our list, don't forget to share it in the comments. If you want to learn more, check out our article on the rarest dog breeds in the world.
If you want to read similar articles to Black and White Dog Breeds List, we recommend you visit our Comparisons category.
- Coren, S. (1994). The intelligence of Dogs.
- International Cynological Federation. (2021). FCI breed nomenclature. 05/20/2021, from the International Cinological Federation Website: http://www.fci.be/en