Are you searching for a small dog to be your first furry companion? Or are you looking to add to your ever-growing pack? Whatever situation you have, this article will guide you on the best small dog breeds. But to be more specific, we will be covering small black and white pooches.
Most often than not, dogs have more than one color in their coats–practically in any combination of colors possible. But there’s just something special about black and white dogs. It could be how they fit a monochromatic aesthetic or perhaps due to how their B&W coat exudes classic yet simple vibes.
Regardless of your reasons for picking black and white-colored dogs, this blog is a great place to start your search.
Understanding your dog’s hair color
There are only two pigments for dogs: eumelanin (default: black-brown) and pheomelanin (default: yellow-red). All dogs genetically belong to either of those two pigments, regardless of what color their coats are outside.
White hair on dogs occurs when there’s no pigment added at all. In essence, the color of a dog’s coat depends on his gene pool. Genes control the pigments produced and where these pigments are produced.
But interestingly, aside from genes, the dog’s color is also often linked to his purpose in life. For instance, dogs bred to protect sheep are often selectively bred to be white just so they can blend into the flock.
Meanwhile, dogs used for herding sheep are selectively bred not to be white. This way, ranchers can spot him easily among the ocean of sheep and snow.
8 Small Black and White Dog Breeds
Purebreds
- Boston Terrier
This pooch’s sleek black and white coat that looks like a tuxedo jacket landed him the nickname “American Gentleman” of dogs. In addition to such a distinctive marking, his large and expressive eyes coupled with a playful personality makes it hard for people to resist him.
They’re also full of energy and have a strong penchant for brisk walks. And Boston Terriers are prone to flatulence, so keep yourself (particularly nose) ready! Seriously though, they’re doting dogs and are sensitive to the feelings of their pet parents.
- Japanese Chin
Japanese Chins are long-haired beauts that are resilient to new environments. These charming lapdogs were even favored by the Japanese royalty in ancient times. So, don’t underestimate their squashed faces! Their cute size makes them perfect for city living.
They don’t need much exercise and even prefer staying indoors. Just 20 minutes of exercise a day and they’re good! The dominant colors of Japanese Chins are black and white, but the black can also be swapped out for sable, red, or orange.
- Tibetan Terrier
Historically bred as a watchdog for ancient Buddhist monasteries, this breed of a small dog is also known as the “Holy Dog of Tibet.” Nowadays, however, Tibetan Terriers are extremely affectionate, still sensitive, and often too smart for their own good. Their shiny double coat, usually in black and white, hangs long and flowy down their willowy bodies.
Interestingly, even with hair that long, they don’t shed too much. This small breed can also be very energetic and a walking enthusiast, probably also due to their origin as mountain dogs.
- Black and white French Bulldog
French Bulldogs have many similar behavioral traits as their English cousins. For starters, they can be stubborn and become territorial. The same goes for black and white French Bulldogs, which are also called piebald.
This particular coat is unique and rare. Their lazy temperament is perfect for those who spend most of their time at home. Black and white Frenchies are also intelligent, thus, need tons of mental stimulation.
- Alaskan Klee Kai
Albeit not the smallest on our list, the Alaskan Klee Kai is a relatively very small version of the Alaskan Husky, earning the moniker “Husky Lite.” These black and white pooches are incredibly energetic, happy, and vocal dogs.
They’re also playful despite their small size–at least 20 to 40 minutes of exercise and playtime is their basic need. Although most of them come in black and white coats, Alaskan Klee Kais can also be white and gray or even white and red.
Crossbreeds
- Patterjack
This hybrid dog is a cross of a Patterdale Terrier and a Jack Russell Terrier. Odds are, his physical and behavioral characteristics are those that are common in both parents. These vibrant and stock dogs come with a bit of a laid-back attitude. Patterjacks are smart but can also be stubborn so spoiling them is a huge no. Their curious personalities need to be supervised, as if not brought up correctly, they can make them aggressive and even more stubborn.
Energetic and alert, they love long walks and house patrolling. A PJ’s short, dense coat is usually a combination of two colors: black and white or brown and white.
- Sheepadoodle
The Sheepadoodle is the offspring of a purebred Old English Sheepdog and a purebred Poodle. Sheepadoodles are smart, loving, and playful. Their main colors are a mix of black and white. However, they can come in solid black and sometimes solid gray. As a low to non-shedder, this small dog breed tends to be ideal for allergy sufferers.
Daily walks and games of fetch are their basic exercise needs, so keep this in mind. Sheepadoodles are very affectionate, social, and even-tempered. They’d be happy being around with kids as much as they are with adults.
- Faux Frenchbo Bulldog
Also known as the Frenchton or Boston Frenchie, this hybrid dog is a mix of the French Bulldog and the Boston Terrier. He’s known for his energetic, playful, and smart (yet mischievous) nature, making him a good nature companion for practically anyone.
What’s more, this breed is low-maintenance in terms of grooming. Usually intelligent and obedient, a Frenchton can also be stubborn, thanks to his Frenchie gene. The Frenchbo wears a short coat with usually black and white markings like their Boston Terrier parent.
Conclusion
There’s a certain allure to having a small black and white furry companion in our space. Many other small breeds come in black and white colors, some of which may be unexpected. But out of all 8 black and white small dog breeds we’ve discussed, have you found one that you want to take home? If none of those breeds isn’t to your liking, don’t worry! Surely, somewhere, there’s a perfect dog for you–you just need to keep on searching.
