White dog breeds come in many sizes and can have distinct personality traits as well. Among the many breeds with white fur, you will find that some are great for energetic families, while others are more solitary and will be wary of strangers and other pets.
According to our definition, white breeds of dogs have white as the dominant color in their coat. There are some breeds that you will recognize like the Chihuahua and others you’ve never heard of. like the Aidi. If you like white dog breeds, there are many breeds to choose from.
| Size | Breed | Weight |
| Extra small | Chihuahua, Japanese Terrier, Maltese and Pomeranian | Less than 10 pounds |
| Small | Bichon Frise, Hokkaido Dog, Japanese Spitz, Bolognese, Cesky Terrier, Chinese Crested, Coton de Tulear and Danish Swedish Farmdog | 10-40 pounds |
| Medium | Afghan Hound, Aidi, American Eskimo Dog, Briquet Griffon Vendeen, English Pointer, Istrian Coarse-Haired Hound, Kai Ken, Karelian Bear Dog, Catahoula Leopard Dog | 40-65 pounds |
| Large | Akbash, Samoyed, Kuvasz, Standard Poodle, Great Pyrenees, Berger Blanc Suisse, American White German Shepherd, Akita Inu, Irish Wolfhound, Canadian Eskimo Dog, Maremma Sheepdog, Ukrainian Shepherd Dog, Slovensky Cuvac, Polish Tatra Sheepdog, American Bulldog, Argentine Mastiff, American Bull Terrier, Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Cretan Hound, Dorset Olde Tyme Bulldog, Komondor, Saluki, Clumber Spaniel, Borzoi | More than 65 pounds |
We’ve created this article to help you become acquainted with 45 of the most notable white dog breeds. We have 4 extra small; 8 small; 9 medium and 24 large white dog breeds. Read on to see a brief overview of what makes each of these breeds unique.
Our Selection Process for White Dog Breeds
We’ve limited these entries to breeds that are pure white dog breeds or breeds for which white is one of several coat colors. We also divided this list by size and provided a quick profile for each of these white dog breeds.
White Dog Breeds (Extra Small)
Here are four extra small white dog breeds.
Each of these breeds weigh less than ten pounds.
These breeds are perfect for those with minimal living space.
Chihuahua
Although they are tiny, this Mexican breed has a strong reputation as one of the oldest breeds in the Americas and for having exuberant personalities.
| Other names | Not applicable |
| Origin | Mexico |
| Colors | White, Black, Cream, Gold |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | 33 of 197 |
| Dog type | Companion dog |
| Weight | – Male: Less than 6 lbs – Female: Less than 6 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 5-8 inches – Female: 5-8 inches |
| Lifespan | 14-16 years |
| Temperament | Independent, Rambunctious |
Anyone who knows Chihuahuas knows that they can be prolific barkers if the mood strikes them. But they are also a great option for someone with a small apartment space.
Japanese Terrier
The Japanese Terrier comes with a dark head, an all-white body, and a high amount of independent inquisitiveness.
| Other names | Nihon Teria |
| Origin | Japan |
| Colors | White, Black and White |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | Not applicable |
| Dog type | Hunting |
| Weight | – Male: 5-10 lbs – Female: 5-10 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 11-13 inches – Female: 11-13 inches |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | Shy, Independent |
In general, this breed tends to be very well mannered and is not likely to bite either your family or your friends.
On the other hand, Japanese Terriers can be loud, especially when they don’t have space to play.
Maltese
The Maltese is a small dog with a long, regal coat and has such an extensive history that it even has a mention in the Bible.
| Other names | |
| Origin | Mediterranean |
| Colors | White |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | 37 of 197 |
| Dog type: | Companion dogs |
| Weight | – Male: Less than 7 lbs – Female: Less than 7 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 7-9 inches -Female: 7-9 inches |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | Affectionate, Playful |
Since they first came into being, this breed has been a companion dog to humans rather than serving as a working dog.
A Maltese is used to spending time with people, so isolation can lead to some anxiousness in this breed.
Pomeranian
Like many small dogs, Pomeranians have a distinct personality and coat and have been the favorites of generations of royalty.
| Other names | Deutscher Spitz |
| Origin | Pomerania |
| Colors | White, Black and Tan, Brown, and Tan, Parti |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | 23 of 197 |
| Dog type | Herding and sled pulling |
| Weight | – Male: 3-7 lbs – Female: 3-7 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 6-7 inches – Female: 6-7 inches |
| Lifespan | 12-16 years |
| Temperament | Brave, Energetic |
If you own a Pomeranian, be ready to have a lot of grooming appointments. Beyond that constant attention, Pomeranians prove to be very positive and easy to train.
White Dog Breeds (Small)
There are eight breeds in the white dog breeds small category.
By our definition, a small dog is one that weighs between 10 and 40 pounds.
The small size of these dogs makes many of them great options as lap dogs.
Bichon Frise
You might be surprised to learn that the playful puff of white fur known as the Bichon Frise was once a herding and sailing dog.
| Other names | Tenerife Dog, Bichon Tenerife |
| Origin | Europe |
| Colors | White, White and Cream, White and Apricot |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | 46 of 197 |
| Dog type: | Herding, sailing |
| Weight | – Male: 12-18 lbs – Female: 12-18 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 9.5-11.5 inches – Female: 9.5-11.5 inches |
| Lifespan | 14-15years |
| Temperament | Playful, energetic |
The Bichon Frise plays well with other dogs and children alike. This breed is also full of energy that will keep you entertained as you play.
Hokkaido Dog
Hokkaido Dog is a Japanese breed with a dignified appearance and shows a calm, low-maintenance demeanor towards its owners.
| Other names | Ainu-ken, Seta, Ainu Dog, Hokkaido Inu, Hokkaido Ken |
| Origin | Japan |
| Colors | White, Black, Red, Tan, Brindle |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | Not applicable |
| Dog type: | Hunting |
| Weight | – Male: 45-65 lbs – Female: 45-65 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 18-20 inches – Female: 18-20 inches |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | Alert, Loyal |
Remember that this breed enjoys some solitude but can be relatively loud when they need to communicate something. Overall, they are impressively strong dogs and easy to care for.
Japanese Spitz
It is hard to ignore the Japanese Spitz with its long flowing coat and its extremely personable behavioral characteristics.
| Other names | Not applicable |
| Origin | Japan |
| Colors | White |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | Not applicable |
| Dog type | Hunting |
| Weight | – Male: 10-25 lbs – Female: 10-25 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 12-15 inches – Female: 12-15 inches |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Temperament | Intelligent, playful |
While these dogs love to engage with their humans, they can also do well when they are alone.
Don’t expect the Japanese Spitz to be a worthy watchdog, but they can be fun family pets.
Bolognese
The Bolognese, also known as Bichon Bolognese, is another dog that offers a large dose of playful energy in a small package.
| Other names | Bichon Bolognese |
| Origin | Italy |
| Colors | White, |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | |
| Dog type: | Companion breed |
| Weight | – Male: 5-9 lbs – Female: 5-9 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 10-12 inches – Female: 10-12 inches |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Temperament | Relaxed, Loyal |
Although they have very long coats that need some attention, the Bolognese does not shed as much as you might expect.
While these dogs can be difficult to housebreak at first, they will survive as a long-lived friend.
Cesky Terrier
The Cesky Terrier is a relatively rare breed in some parts of the world, but if you have been lucky enough to meet one you’ll know that these dogs are very fun-loving.
| Other names | Bohemian Terrier |
| Origin | Czech Republic |
| Colors | White, Grey, Light Brown |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | 185 of 197 |
| Dog type: | Hunting |
| Weight | – Male: 14-24 lbs – Female: 14-24 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 10-13 inches – Female: 10-13 inches |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | Curious, Intelligent |
Cesky Terriers are great pets for children, but their playfulness can come at a cost. Not only do you need to do some thorough socialization with this breed, but you also need to look out for excessive digging habits.
Chinese Crested
The Chinese Crested is one of the most unique dog breeds in the world, as it is easy to spot by its flamboyant head fur on an otherwise hairless body.
| Other names | Chinese Ship Dog |
| Origin | China |
| Colors | White, Hairless, Black, Apricot, Brown |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | Ranks 79 of 197 |
| Dog type: | Sailing |
| Weight | – Male: 8-12 lbs – Female: 8-12 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 11-13 inches – Female: 11-13 inches |
| Lifespan | 13-18 years |
| Temperament | Active, Loving |
One of the most obvious benefits of owning a Chinese Crested is that this dog will not do a lot of shedding. But with one of these dogs, you’ll also get an attentive pet with minimal aggression.
Coton de Tulear
Small but with a long coat, the Coton de Tulear is an amicable breed that has a surprising origin on the island of Madagascar.
| Other names | Coton, Cotie |
| Origin | Madagascar |
| Colors | White, Black, Grey, and White |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | 81 of 197 |
| Dog type: | Companion dogs |
| Weight | – Male: 9-15 lbs – Female: 8-13 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 10-11 inches – Female: 9-10 inches |
| Lifespan | 15-19 years |
| Temperament | High-spirited, Alert |
Occasionally, this breed will show some stubbornness and loud barking. Otherwise, they are polite with people and other pets.
Danish Swedish Farmdog
Sometimes needing some extra time to grow up fully, the Danish Swedish Farmdog will eventually develop into a reliable hunting and tracking pet.
| Other names | Danish Pinscher, Little Big Dog |
| Origin | Denmark |
| Colors | White, Black and White, White and Brown |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | |
| Dog type: | Hunting, Tracking, Farming |
| Weight | – Male: 15-20 lbs – Female: 15-20 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 12-15 inches – Female: 12-15 inches |
| Lifespan | 11-13 years |
| Temperament | Energetic, Agreeable |
The Danish Swedish Farmdog is a rare breed and needs an active lifestyle. To your benefit, this breed is full of energy but still is easy to train.
White Dog Breeds (Medium)
In this section, you can find nine medium white dog breeds.
We define medium breeds as those that weigh between 40 and 65 pounds at their mature size. This size makes for some effective hunting breeds but can limit the living environments of these breeds.
Afghan Hound
Known for a somewhat aloof nature, the Afghan Hound hails from Afghanistan and has a long, elegant coat.
| Other names | Sage Baluchi, Balkh Hound |
| Origin | Afghanistan |
| Colors | White, Black, Red, Cream |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | 113 of 197 |
| Dog type: | Hunting |
| Weight | – Male: 55-65 lbs – Female: 45-55 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 27 inches – Female: 25 inches |
| Lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Temperament | Independent, sometimes aloof |
Overall, the most noticeable trait of this breed is its coat, which calls for a lot of grooming. But a closer relationship with an Afghan Hound proves that, although somewhat shy, these dogs are highly independent and intelligent.
Aidi
Along with serving as guardian over livestock, the Aidi breed has hunted alongside humans in Northern Africa for centuries.
| Other names | Atlas Mountain Dog, Atlas Shepherd Dog |
| Origin | Morocco |
| Colors | White, Black, Red, Tawny |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | No |
| Popularity rank | |
| Dog type: | Herding |
| Weight | – Male: 50-55lbs – Female: 50-55lbs |
| Height | – Male: 20-24 inches – Female: 20-24 inches |
| Lifespan | 12-13 years |
| Temperament | Alert, affectionate |
Aidi dogs are easy to care for and have an attitude compatible with families. However, they need a lot of exercise, and it can be hard to train.
American Eskimo Dog
American Eskimo Dogs have a balanced temper that pairs nicely with their bright fluffy coats.
| Other names | Cloud Spitz, American Spitz |
| Origin | United States |
| Colors | White, Cream |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | Ranks 122 of 197 |
| Dog type: | Show dog |
| Weight | – Male: 25-35 lbs – Female: 25-35 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 15-19 inches – Female: 15-19 inches |
| Lifespan | 13-15 years |
| Temperament | Alert, affectionate |
These dogs are very smart and can live well, even in smaller homes with minimal yard space. But remember that the American Eskimo Dog is not always as friendly to other dogs as they are to their owners.
Briquet Griffon Vendeen
Although this French breed was recently close to extinction, the Briquet Griffon Vendeen has since made a resurgence in popularity.
| Other names | Medium Vendéen Griffon |
| Origin | France |
| Colors | White, Black, Tan, Multi-colored |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | No |
| Popularity rank | Not applicable |
| Dog type: | Hunting |
| Weight | – Male: 45-55 lbs – Female: 45-55 lbs. |
| Height | – Male: 20-22 inches – Female: 19-21 inches |
| Lifespan | 10-12 years |
| Temperament | Active, loyal |
Briquet Griffon Vendeens are affectionate towards humans and have a proven history of intent hunting dogs. If you own one, be sure to give it an active life.
English Pointer
The English Pointer is an exceptionally athletic English hunting dog.
| Other names | Pointer |
| Origin | England |
| Colors | White, Black, Brown, Multi-colored |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | 114 of 197 |
| Dog type: | Hunting |
| Weight | – Male: 55-75 lbs – Female: 45-65 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 25-28 inches – Female: 23-26inches |
| Lifespan | 12-17 years |
| Temperament | Independent, energetic |
English Pointers are fast, agile, and ready to defend their owners. Those qualities mean that you should only own one of these dogs if you have access to an open play space.
Istrian Coarse-Haired Hound
For the entirety of its history, including the present day, the Istrian Coarse-Haired Hound has been a reliable hunting dog more so than a companion pet.
| Other names | Not applicable |
| Origin | Croatia |
| Colors | White, White with Brown Markings |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | No |
| Popularity rank | Not applicable |
| Dog type: | Hunting |
| Weight | – Male: 25-56 lbs – Female: 25-56 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 17-23 inches – Female: 17-23 inches |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | Intelligent, loyal |
Although they have a coarse coat, dogs of this breed shed minimally.
As an intelligent and active breed, the Istrian Coarse-Haired Hound needs a good amount of attention.
Kai Ken
Although very rare even in its native country, the Kai Ken is one of the oldest and most representative breeds of Japan. The most common coat color the Kai Ken comes is brindle-style in red, brown and/or black (referred to a “tiger stripes) but it does come in all white.
| Other names | Tiger Dog, Tora Dog, Tora Inu |
| Origin | Japan |
| Colors | White, Brindle in Red, Brown, Black |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | |
| Dog type: | Hunting |
| Weight | – Male: 20-40 lbs – Female: 20-40 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 15.5-19.5 inches – Female: 15.5-19.5 inches |
| Lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Temperament | Fast learner, protective |
Kai Kens have developed a reputation for loyalty.
They are skittish around strangers.
These dogs also have impressive strength but can be hard to train.
Karelian Bear Dog
Although they are formidable big game hunting dogs, Karelian Bear Dogs remain very affectionate towards their human companions. Black and white coats are the most common colors. Pure white is less common.
| Other names | Not applicable |
| Origin | Finland |
| Colors | White, Black, Black and White |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | Not available |
| Dog type: | Hunting |
| Weight | – Male: 45-50 lbs – Female: 45-50 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 19-23.5 inches – Female: 19-23.5 inches |
| Lifespan | 11-14 years |
| Temperament | Communicative, competitive |
Karelian Bear Dogs are strong and ready to guard their owners. And while that may bode well for your safety, it also means that these dogs can become very territorial around other canines.
Catahoula Leopard dog
The Catahoula Leopard dog is the only dog breed native to Louisiana and has served as a reliable work dog in that area.
| Other names | Louisiana Catahoula |
| Origin | Southeastern United States |
| Colors | White, Leopard Pattern with Black, Grey, and Brown Shades |
| Recognized by the American Kennel Club | Yes |
| Popularity rank | Not available |
| Dog type: | Cattle herding |
| Weight | – Male: 50-95 lbs – Female: 50-95 lbs |
| Height | – Male: 22-24 inches – Female: 22-24 inches |
| Lifespan | 10-14 years |
| Temperament | Loyal, watchful |
While Catahoula Leopard dogs have the reputation of being dependable workers, they also need some special care. Mainly, this breed needs to be socialized at a young age to avoid behavioral problems.
Large White Dog Breeds
Check this article to discover more about the 24 big white dog breeds we’ve investigated.
How Do You Keep White Dogs White
White dogs don’t stay white.
White dogs can rub themselves in grass and they can wade through muddy puddles or a combination of the two! Sometimes you can be prepared and leash your white dog before they pounce on a puddle but sometimes you can’t control the situation.
We’ve written a comprehensive guide to keeping dogs white which includes using whitening shampoo and removing brown stains or saliva from white fur. We examine a range of store-bought and homemade solutions to help you out.
Conclusion
When it comes to dogs with white fur, there are many different breeds that meet that description. Many of those breeds are recognized and ranked by the American Kennel Club, while some others are not. As you now know, these white dog breeds can have extremely different personalities and physical characteristics. But their one unifying feature is a beautiful white coat.