Large or small, these dogs with exclusively white coats make a striking impression in any setting.
Out of the many dog breeds worldwide, only about a dozen maintain a pure white coat into adulthood. While numerous breeds can produce white puppies among other color variations, their coats often darken as they age, losing their pristine white appearance.
Among these breeds, some are small companion animals, while others are larger and more robust. Breeds like the Samoyed, Great Pyrenees, and Japanese Spitz have coats that reflect their Arctic or mountainous origins. Many of these white-coated dogs have served as noble companions or working dogs throughout history.
Here are 12 breeds known for their exclusively white coats:
1. Samoyed
A striking white spitz breed, the Samoyed is a medium-to-large dog with a thick, fluffy coat adapted for cold climates. Originally from Siberia, they were used for herding, sledding, and hunting. Although primarily white, some may develop a cream or biscuit tint as they mature. Expect frequent shedding and a lot of fur around the house.
- Group: Working (AKC)
- Height: 19 to 24 inches
- Weight: 35 to 65 pounds
- Coat and Color: Thick double coat; colors include white, cream, and biscuit
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
2. Maltese
The Maltese is the smallest breed on this list, weighing between 4 to 7 pounds and standing under 10 inches tall. Its long, silky white coat is a hallmark of its charm. Regular grooming is necessary to maintain its pristine appearance, with some owners opting for shorter trims.
- Group: Toy (AKC)
- Height: 8–10 inches
- Weight: 4 to 7 pounds
- Coat and Color: Long, silky white fur; dark eyes and nose
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
3. West Highland White Terrier
Commonly known as the Westie, this compact terrier from Scotland has a double coat of white fur. Originally bred for hunting vermin, the Westie is a lively companion that requires consistent brushing and grooming to keep its coat in top condition.
- Group: Terrier (AKC)
- Height: 10–11 inches
- Weight: 13 to 20 pounds
- Coat and Color: White double-coated, medium-length fur
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 16 years
4. American Eskimo
Despite its name, the American Eskimo breed originated in the U.S. and was formerly known as the German Spitz. It comes in toy, miniature, and standard sizes, all with a fluffy white coat and an alert expression. The breed is intelligent and was once popular as a circus performer.
- Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
- Height: Toy: 9–12 inches; Miniature: 12–15 inches; Standard: 15–19 inches
- Weight: Toy: 6–10 pounds; Miniature: 10–20 pounds; Standard: 25–35 pounds
- Coat and Color: All-white, stand-off double coat
- Life Expectancy: 13 to 15 years
5. Bichon Frise
Originating in France, the Bichon Frise is a lively and active companion known for its fluffy, curly white coat. It requires regular brushing and grooming to prevent matting and maintain its signature appearance.
- Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
- Height: 9–12 inches
- Weight: 7–12 pounds
- Coat and Color: Fluffy, curly white fur; may have traces of apricot, buff, or cream
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
6. Great Pyrenees
The largest of the white breeds, the Great Pyrenees is a gentle giant with a thick double coat. Known for its role as a herd guardian, this breed sheds year-round and requires frequent brushing to manage its abundant fur.
- Group: Working (AKC)
- Height: 25 to 32 inches
- Weight: 85 pounds and up
- Coat and Color: Thick double coat; primarily white with possible gray, red, or tan markings
- Life Expectancy: 10 to 12 years
7. Coton de Tulear
A small white dog from Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear is known for its fluffy, semi-long coat. This breed needs regular combing to prevent tangles and maintain its appearance.
- Group: Non-Sporting (AKC)
- Height: 9–11 inches
- Weight: 8–15 pounds
- Coat and Color: Fluffy white coat
- Life Expectancy: 14 to 16 years
8. Bolognese
This small breed from Italy has a long, fluffy white coat and shares similarities with the bichon. The Bolognese is known for its calm demeanor and needs regular grooming to avoid tangles.
- Group: Not AKC-recognized; Foundational Stock Service (AKC)
- Height: 10–12 inches
- Weight: 5.5–9 pounds
- Coat and Color: Long, curly white hair; black nose and dark eyes
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
9. Dogo Argentino
A powerful breed with a short, smooth white coat, the Dogo Argentino was developed in Argentina for hunting large game. It is a strong, loyal dog with minimal grooming needs but is sensitive to sun exposure due to its light coat.
- Group: Working (AKC)
- Height: 23 to 27 inches
- Weight: 80 to 100 pounds
- Coat and Color: All-white, smooth and short coat
- Life Expectancy: 9 to 15 years
10. Japanese Spitz
The Japanese Spitz is a small-to-medium-sized breed with a fluffy, white coat and an alert expression. It is adaptable to various living environments and requires regular brushing to manage its coat.
- Group: Not-AKC recognized; Foundational Stock Service (AKC)
- Height: 12 to 15 inches
- Weight: 10 to 25 pounds
- Coat and Color: Straight, stand-off outer coat with a soft, dense undercoat; dark eyes, nose, and lips
- Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
11. Komondor
The Komondor’s unique corded coat makes it look like a woolly sheep. Originating in Hungary, this large breed’s coat requires regular bathing and drying to keep it clean and prevent odors.
- Group: Working (AKC)
- Height: 26 to 28 inches
- Weight: 80+ pounds
- Coat and Color: White corded coat
- Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
12. Kuvasz
Another large breed from Hungary, the Kuvasz has a thick double coat that can be straight or slightly wavy. It requires regular brushing and seasonal shedding can be significant.
- Group: Working (AKC)
- Height: 26 to 30 inches
- Weight: 70 to 115 pounds
- Coat and Color: Thick double coat; always solid white
- Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
Breed Considerations Some all-white breeds, including the Dogo Argentino, may be predisposed to pigment-related deafness, which is more common in dogs with white coats. Additionally, the Komondor requires intensive care due to its corded coat, which needs regular bathing and drying to avoid odors and mildew.
FAQ
Why do white dogs get brown around the eyes?
Tear stains, caused by a pigment called porphyrin in tears, can lead to discoloration under the eyes.
How do you clean white dogs’ eyes?
Regular gentle cleaning is necessary. You can use solutions recommended by the AKC or store-bought products designed to prevent or remove tear stains.
Why does my white dog’s hair turn pink or brownish?
Porphyrin in saliva can stain the fur, especially if the dog licks its coat. Regular grooming and cleaning can help minimize these stains.
