There’s something undeniably charming about white dog breeds. Their snowy fur makes them stand out in any crowd—and even adds an extra challenge to wintertime games of hide-and-seek! Plus, white dogs inspire all kinds of playful and elegant name ideas, from Snowflake and Marshmallow to Coconut, Icicle, Bianca, or even Vit.
The breeds featured here confidently break the old-fashioned rule by rocking white coats all year long (yes, even past Labor Day). While many of these breeds can come in various colors, they’re primarily known for sporting either all-white coats or prominent white markings.
Whether you’re hoping for a tiny lap pup or a larger companion, a fluffy cloud or a sleek-coated friend, a familiar favorite or something a bit rarer, you’ll find your perfect white-coated companion among these adorable canines.
1. Overall, the Most Popular White Dog Breed is the French Bulldog
Cheese. Crepes. Towering landmarks. Adorable pups. What in the world can the French not do? While the French bulldog technically originated in England, it didn’t take long for the breed to win over hearts in France with its playful and quirky personality. (And really, who can resist those signature fuzzy bat ears?) The affection for this breed isn’t just in France—according to the 2023 registration data from the American Kennel Club (AKC), French bulldogs are now the most popular breed across the United States.
But what makes them such a fan favorite? It could be their compact size, which makes them perfect for apartment living and easy travel, or it could be their loving quality and their ability to get along with folks of all ages. Add their minimal grooming needs, lack of exercise requirements, and it is no wonder that they are the most popular companions.
2. Smallest White Dog Breed: Chihuahua
The maximum height of the Chihuahuas is only 9 inches, and they weigh no more than 6 pounds. To put that in perspective, even the tallest among them would barely surpass the height of a standard No. 2 pencil (roughly 7.5 inches), and the heaviest would match the weight of a typical bag of coffee beans. But don’t let their tiny size fool you—anyone who’s met a Chihuahua knows they pack plenty of attitude into that small frame. Often called “Chis” by fans of the breed, these pint-sized pups are also quite intelligent, making them relatively easy to train. That said, with their confident personalities, don’t be surprised if it feels like your pup is the one calling the shots.
Related: 17 Teddy Bear Dogs That Make Sweet Companions
3. Biggest White Dog Breed: Great Dane
At the opposite end of the size chart, if you’d prefer a dog you can pet without leaning down, a Great Dane might be the perfect match. These peaceful beasties may weigh in at a maximum of 175 pounds and are commonly so large that they are mistaken for a mini-horse. Their size comes with a matching appetite, so it’s wise to consider the cost of feeding them, not to mention the higher doses of medications they’ll need compared to more petite breeds.
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4. Fluffiest White Dog Breed: Samoyed
While Samoyeds are, of course, dogs, it wouldn’t be far-fetched to mistake them for walking white clouds. As noted by the Samoyed Club of America, their name is pronounced “Sam-a-YED,” and just when you thought they couldn’t be any more lovable, they’re affectionately nicknamed “Sammies.” Despite their soft, marshmallow-like appearance, these pups have serious roots as hard-working Arctic dogs—originally bred for tasks like herding, hunting, and pulling sleds.
Because of that heritage, Samoyeds need plenty of mental and physical stimulation and thrive when they’re active and engaged with their people, especially outdoors where they have space to roam. That stunning double-layer coat, though, requires regular attention. Be prepared to put in some brushing effort (possibly daily, depending on the season). Staying this fluffy is no small task!
Related: How to Moisturize Your Dog’s Dry, Flaky Skin
5. Cutest Black and White Dog Breed: Sheepadoodle
We’ll admit it—this might be a slightly biased category, but we dare any sheepadoodle skeptics to look into those fluffy, endearing faces without melting just a little. Sheepadoodles do have the whole package. Soft and cuddly? Check. Silly and fun? Check. Kind-natured? Absolutely. Enormous teddy bear energy? Without a doubt.
As the name suggests, they are lovely mixes of an Old English sheepdog and a poodle. It is a mix that is not only a picture of an adorable puppy but also describes two companionable, relaxed temperaments. Sheepadoodles are calm and faithful companions, whether going out jogging or settling down on the couch to watch Netflix. Their close attachment to their human companions can mean that they are at risk of separation anxiety. Still, they can stay healthy, happy, and contented while you are not around with the right amount of interactive toys and human stimuli.
Related: Pet Care Experience Examples: Dog Walking Tips and Benefits
6. Most Beloved Brown and White Dog Breed: English Springer Spaniel
Okay, we understand why it is such a subjective choice, but stay with us. The English springer spaniel has a specific imperious something about it that is set in time. They have a timeless beauty with their silky, slightly wavy coat, expressive eyes, and just the most adorable, floppy ears. These dogs are not just about their good looks, though, so beware. The English springer spaniel is a long-respected gundog that has accepted the responsibility of acting with hunters to track and retrieve the birds in the field. The same spirit that is present on the field is present at home as well. They are lovely, happy to work, and comfortable to perform. They are an energetic breed, so they like regular training, regular physical activity, and lots of mental work.
And where do they love to let loose the most? In the water. Much like a kid spotting a puddle, these dogs rarely miss a chance to splash around and get soaking wet.
7. Top White Dog Breed in the Toy Group: Shih Tzu
The shih tzu might raise some eyebrows thanks to its name (especially in English), but don’t be too quick to judge. Pronounced “sheed-zoo” or “sheet-su,” the name means “lion dog”—pretty majestic, right? In fact, according to the American Kennel Club, this breed was created by imperial breeders for Chinese royalty and spent generations living the high life in palace laps.
Luckily for us commoners, today’s shih tzus are willing to share their love with regular households. That said, they haven’t quite forgotten their noble roots and still expect a fair share of attention and pampering.
Perfect for small-space living, these little dogs are happiest when curled up in someone’s lap, preferably being doted on. Just keep in mind that a lush coat doesn’t maintain itself—it demands daily grooming and regular baths. But hey, it’s a small trade-off to share your home with canine royalty.
8. Ideal White Dog Breed for Cold Weather: Alaskan Malamute
It’s no shock that a breed with “Alaskan” in its title is more at home in snowy landscapes than on sunny beaches. Thought to be one of the most ancient sled dogs, the Alaskan malamute’s lineage goes back to the Mahlemut people, an Inuit tribe that relied on them for big-game hunting and hauling supplies over icy ground. Nicknamed “Mals,” these powerful dogs are built to work. They usually stand close to two feet in height and tip the scales between 75 and 85 pounds, but it’s their eye-catching coat that turns heads. Their thick fur includes a rough outer layer and a dense, wool-like inner layer, offering solid protection against bitter weather like wind, snow, and sleet. Just a heads-up: twice a year, Mals shed heavily in what’s known as a “coat blow,” leaving piles of fur everywhere. Yet, if you’re dedicated to your fluffy winter buddy, go ahead—let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!
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9. Great White Dog Breed for Hound Enthusiasts: Basset Hound
Goodness gracious! Is there a more lovable face in the canine world than that of the basset hound? We’d argue there isn’t—and if you’re unsure, just glance at those mournful, droopy eyes one more time. These short-legged, solid hounds (the word “bas” translates to “low” in French) are renowned for their powerful sense of smell, coming in just behind the bloodhound. Though their low build might give them an edge in a limbo contest, their signature floppy, silky ears often get in their way. Still, basset hounds handle it all with grace and are affectionate, gentle dogs who crave constant companionship. And if your pup’s feeling down, you’ll be alerted—their signature howl is distinctive and charming at first, though you (and possibly your neighbors) may not find it adorable for very long.
Related: Homemade Dog Food Nutrition Calculator: 3 Steps for Meals!
10. White Dog Breed Ideal for Allergy Sufferers: Coton de Tulear
The name “Coton de Tulear” (“ko-tone dih too-lay-are”) might sound like a delicate dessert you’d find in a fancy French bakery, but this breed is an entirely different (and arguably more delightful) kind of treat. The name comes from the French word for cotton and the coastal city of Tulear in Madagascar—both fitting for this soft, white puffball of a dog.
One of the reasons allergy sufferers adore cottons is because their silky coat is technically considered hair, not fur. This makes them a great hypoallergenic option. They also produce little dander and don’t shed, although they do need frequent grooming to prevent tangles. Dubbed the “Royal Dog of Madagascar,” the coton isn’t too proud to hang out with everyday folks. The pups are happy, affectionate, and quite good with children. They are also fond of being close to their human companions; hence, it is no wonder that they are a good fit for people who work remotely at home most of the time.
11. Top White Dog Breed for Apartment Dwellers: Maltipoo
If limited space is a factor in your home search, consider the charming Maltipoo—an adorable fluffball that’s perfect for tight quarters. A cross between the Maltese and either a toy or miniature poodle, this hybrid breed has been purposefully bred for only a few decades (about 20–30 years).
Maltipoos are small in stature, cheerful, easy to train, and have allergy-friendly coats—traits that make them excellent pets for apartments. They’re also content spending time indoors, making them great roommates. You won’t need to worry about bathroom schedules or dishes piling up, either. Just be prepared to teach your furry friend not to bark excessively, or your neighbors might not be quite as fond of them.
12. Most Intelligent White Dog Breed: Standard Poodle
That elegant, curly coat hides a remarkably sharp mind. Standard poodles are regularly identified as one of the most brilliant dog breeds. Though they are often associated with France, poodles originated in Germany centuries ago, where they were bred to retrieve ducks. Their iconic grooming style, now mainly for show, originally had a purpose: shaving parts of the body while leaving fur around the joints and chest helped them move easily in water while remaining friendly where it mattered most. Despite their posh reputation, poodles have working roots and still thrive on physical activity, especially swimming. They make loyal companions, but like many brilliant animals, they appreciate their space and often do best in homes with older kids.
13. Top White Dog Breed for Hunting Enthusiasts: English Pointer
No shade to the English springer spaniel, but English pointers—commonly called just “pointers”—might take the lead when it comes to fieldwork. As the American Kennel Club notes, these tireless canines truly live up to their name. Known for being reliable hunting dogs, pointers have been used to locate and recover game birds for centuries, gaining a strong fan base along the way.
According to the United Kennel Club, four standout features define this breed: their elongated, sculpted head, short “bee sting” tail, powerful tracking ability, and smooth, energetic stride. Despite their strong work ethic, pointers aren’t all business—they’re also capable of forming loving bonds with their humans. (Just maybe keep your feathered pets out of the equation.)
14. Uncommon White Dog Breed With the Coolest Name: Norrbottenspets
Try saying it out loud: Nor-boh-TEN-spets. This compact (20- to 30-pound) breed of hunting dog is so uncommon that, at one point, the Swedish Kennel Club believed it had gone extinct. Luckily, some of these tough little dogs were later found surviving in remote areas of Northern Sweden and Finland. Despite their modest size, Norrbottenspets are undeniably bold, able to face the harsh climate, rough landscapes, and even massive wildlife (yes, including moose) of their native region. Yet they also manage to be gentle and loyal toward people—a unique blend of toughness and tenderness.
Did You Know? White Dog Breeds and Hearing Loss
This is very interesting: During the study of the white dog breeds, you might find some information on deafness. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) recognizes that hearing loss, also known as congenital deafness, is more prevalent in white-coated dogs. This condition is associated with two pigmentation genes, including the piebald gene and the merle gene. Some of the breeds of dogs that bear the merle gene are: collies and the Old English sheepdog, Shetland sheepdogs, the Harlequin Great Danes, and the American foxhound. In the meantime, the piebald gene occurs in Dalmatians, English setters, beagles, Samoyeds, bulldogs, bull terriers, and Great Pyrenees breeds.
Although large-scale studies on breed-specific deafness rates are limited, OFA reports that Dalmatians show the highest numbers. Approximately 22% of Dalmatians in the U.S. are deaf in one ear, and around 8% are deaf in both ears. One reason we lack extensive data is that reliable hearing tests for dogs have only recently become more accessible. Plus, dogs that are deaf in one ear often behave normally and can go undiagnosed without specific testing.
If you’re concerned about your dog’s hearing, your veterinarian may recommend a BAER test—short for Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response. This test scans electrical activity in the inner ear’s cochlea and the brain’s auditory nerve, much like an EKG tracks heart activity. The AKC also notes that responsible breeders of at-risk breeds often test their puppies and breeding dogs to identify and manage congenital deafness early on.
FAQs
1. Are white dog breeds more prone to health issues?
Some white-coated breeds may be more susceptible to hearing issues, especially those carrying the piebald or merle gene, like Dalmatians or bull terriers.
2. Do white dogs need special grooming?
Yes, white fur can stain more easily, so regular brushing and occasional whitening shampoos help keep their coats bright and clean.
3. Are there hypoallergenic white dog breeds?
Absolutely! Breeds like the Coton de Tulear and Maltipoo are low-shedding and allergy-friendly options for owners with sensitive allergies.
4. What’s the fluffiest white dog breed?
The Samoyed takes the crown—its thick, cloud-like double coat was made for Arctic weather and maximum cuddle power.
5. Can white dogs live in warm climates?
Yes, but make sure they have plenty of shade and hydration. Breeds like the Great Pyrenees and Malamute may struggle with excessive heat.
