Dogs who usually have a colored coat may be born with a white coat because their DNA has a mutation that causes a lack of pigment. These dogs can be adorable. But they also have additional genetic mutations, such as deafness. So ask your family doctor to examine a white dog you consider taking to be informed of any medical issues before you make a commitment. Although some white dog breeds may not be the result of a genetic mutation. In these cases, you may be lucky as we are talking about seriously cute pets.
I’ve compiled the list of my favorite white dogs below. If you are looking for a graciously beautiful pet, I hope you’ll find some of the breeds as a suggestion for your new family member.
Are you interested in a specific white dog breed? Then use the table of contents below to jump to the most relevant section. And you can always go back by clicking on the black arrow in the right bottom corner of the page. Also, please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. For more details, check the Disclosure section at the bottom of the page.
Here's what we'll cover:
Small white dog breeds
Maltese
The smallest white dog breed is the Maltese dog. These pocket-sized white fluffy dogs will only grow up to 4 to 7 pounds and remain below 10 inches long. The long, silky white coat of the Maltese adds to this famous companion dog’s cuteness, although some owners prefer to keep it short. Either way, plan to spend some time grooming your dog every week and taking daily trips to the groomer.
The black button eyes and nose of the Maltese seem to be staring out from behind the pure white fur, and many Maltese dogs are wearing a top knot or bow to keep their hair out of their eyes.
Bichon frise
It’s quick to find the Bichon Frise in a crowd of white dogs, thanks to its fuzzy fur and rounded shape. The breed, as we know it today, originated in France. And is thought to have descended from the canoe and the water spaniel. With its history, it is no wonder that Bichon is an enthusiastic and adventurous companion dog and one of the cutest white curly-haired dogs out there. They are also small and can be anywhere from 9 to 12 inches tall and not over 12 pounds.
Big white dogs
Great Pyrenees
The Great Pyrenees’ dogs were raised to guard sheep in the Pyrenees between France and Spain, and their thick fur coat protects them from brutally cold temperatures. They are tall, strong dogs that weigh more than 85 pounds. As family pets, they are usually friendly and accommodating to strangers but will defend their loved ones if threatened. Since they are working dogs, the Great Pyrenees need only mild exercise, and regular walking should keep them calm.
The Great Pyrenees’ thick white coat sheds heavily, and while their hair is very tangle-resistant, they need regular brushing to keep their hair loose.
Dogo argentino
These white hunting dog breed dogs are characterized by a strong and large muscular body. They can be intimidating to others, but they can be excellent family pets with proper training and socialization.
They were initially bred for hunting large game in Argentina, as well as for defense.
They hit a height of 27 inches on the shoulder and a weight of around 100 lbs.
Dogo Argentino is vulnerable to pigment-related deafness in one or both of the ears.
Due to certain limitations, the Dogo Argentino is forbidden in certain countries and territories. So be sure to review the local laws before purchasing or adopting one of the brave yet caring white dogs.
Akbash dog
One of the oldest dog breeds, this dog was raised in 300 B.C. As an animal guardian dog in Turkey.
These large white dogs are strong, and while they are loving companion dogs, they can be very wary of strangers.
The Akbash dogs have white bodies, except for their heads, which often have biscuit shades.
Their coats need to be washed weekly and more frequently during the fall and spring when they are shed.
They are about 33 inches tall and weigh up to 140 lbs. The females are only a little smaller, with a shoulder of 30 inches and 120 lbs.
Medium-sized white dogs
Samoyed
The Samoyed (and the Miniature Samoyed) may be one of the fluffiest white dogs ever. These working dogs are strong and enthusiastic, but most importantly, they are kind and gentle dogs who love to have fun.
Since the corners of their mouth are naturally pointing upward, they look like they’re smiling all the time. That’s why they’ve been called “Smiley.” Even although they’re sporting fuzzy coats, they seldom shed – making them a solid hypoallergenic breed.
Though highly intelligent and loyal, the Samoyed demands a great deal of attention. They give the family members a lot of love and hope the same reciprocated back. A reasonable amount of exercise is also required to make them comfortable.
Japanese Spitz
Although the Japanese Spitz is not officially recognized by the American Kennel Club, it is the Foundation Stock Service (FSS) breed. It doesn’t take away that these dogs are really playful and love to have fun.
There’s nothing they enjoy more than having fun and making you happy. As a result, they’re going to do their hardest to always cheer you up and please you. Whatever it might be, they’re up for it – making them a little daring pets, too!
Physical exercise is enjoyed by the Japanese Spitz, but they would be just as relaxing on their favorite human lap. But since they are such fluffy puppies, expect to see mild to extreme shedding during the year.
Cute white dogs
Havanese
These lovable little white dogs are related to Bichon Frise and Maltese. They are the only dog breed native from Cuba (and were named after the country’s capital – Havana). And these pups are amongst the fluffiest white dogs out there.
They are lively puppies who love to spend time and play with their humans.
Today, Havanese is becoming an increasingly common dog breed among city dwellers because of the dogs’ size and delightful nature.
While typically white, Havanese can come in other colors, including red, silver, black, or fawn.
Coton de Tulear
This small white dog was once a highly protected pet for Madagascar’s elite off the coast of Africa. It is suspected that these dogs’ early ancestors were seafaring pups that kept the company to the sailors. It’s no wonder, then, that these tiny but robust pups make excellent companion dogs. They are considered to be gentle with children and other pets, too.
Holding the white skin of Coton de Tulear looking its best means to commit to combing it many times a week. Otherwise, the wispy, semi-long hair will easily be entangled.
Beautiful white dogs
Berger Blanc Suisse
Nope, this is not the Albino German Shepherd. This is Berger Blanc Suisse, which is translated as “White Swiss Shepherd.”
This white dog is a new breed that has been developed in Switzerland. The natives like to name him the Shepherd of the Snow.
Berger Blanc Suisse traces its origins back to the GSD breeding program in Germany in the 1800s. At that time, the breeders found the white-coated German Shepherds to be defective. Dog supporters have prohibited them from entering clubs and competitions.
However, in the 1970s, some breeders set up a breeding program for these white-coated German shepherds and sought to distinguish them as separate breeds.
Kishu
This white dog breed is not very well-known but still fabulous. They’re all white and beyond cute! Kishu is also known as Kishu Kens or Kishu Inus. (It’s almost like the Shiba Inu!) This breed is docile, dignified, noble, alert, and faithful. They love to spend time with people and relax at home with their families.
Thanks for the blog graphics: Canva.com
