Spotted dog breeds possess striking, unique looks that add to their appeal. Their personality traits also vary from one pup to another, making them quite fascinating pets. And did you know there are a couple dozen of these spotted pooches?
When it comes to spotted dogs, Dalmatians often come to mind, with those gorgeous spots all over their bodies. Then, there is the English Springer Spaniel with spotted chests and the German Shorthaired Pointer, a combination of solid and spotted coat patterns.
Here are a few more of these spotted dog breeds that you never knew existed. Discover more about these adorable pooches that may just deserve a spot in your home!
24. Dalmatian
When it comes to spotted dog breeds, the Dalmatian often comes to mind. They are famous for their white coats with black spots all over their bodies. Moreover, they have blue eyes, and there are those that are born deaf.
These are sweet pups but with a stubborn streak. They are also quite large and can grow up to 80 lbs, which is why a bigger house and yard are suitable for these giant canines. Early training and socialization are also important to help them develop good behavior and habits.
23. English Springer Spaniel
These dogs have been around for centuries and were bred specifically for hunting. They are long-haired dogs with curly coats in shades of white and brown or black spots. Brushing their hair every day is important to keep shedding under control.
English Springer Spaniels are medium-sized dogs. They require moderate exercise, such as daily walks for an hour. A big, fenced yard is ideal for these dogs as they are not the type who prefers to be cooped up indoors for a long time.
22. Border Collie
Another popular spotted dog breed, the Border Collie, is an intelligent and obedient pooch. These pups come with blue merle, black, and white, tan, or white coats with spots all around. Their long hair is thick and wavy, which requires daily grooming.
Historically, Border Collies were bred to work on farms. However, they should be fine in an apartment, as long as they are given time to run or walk for an hour or so each day. Training these pups should be easy because of their inherent smarts and strong desire to please their owners.
21. Great Pyrenees
A massive dog breed, the Great Pyrenees often comes in fluffy white coats. However, there are those with spots, usually black in color. Their hair is long, dense, and wavy and can be quite a shedding issue. Thus, regular grooming is a must for these dogs.
Pyrs have a bit of a stubborn streak and can be very playful even during their adult years. Hence, it is best to train them at an early age. Once well-trained, they can get along perfectly well with children and household pets.
20. Brittany Spaniel
One of the famous spotted dog breeds, Brittany Spaniels, are excellent hunting companions. They have brown and white coats, with the brown showing up as the spots. Their coats are usually medium-length, and shedding is more frequent during summer.
These are high-energy dogs, which is why regular exercise is a must for these pups. Otherwise, they can be destructive when cooped up at home most of the time.
19. Beagle
Beagles are tricolor dogs that may come with spotted coats. Their typical colors include white, tan, and black, while others may have dark spots in some areas of their body. Shedding is not much of an issue with these dogs because of their shorter hair length.
As hunting dogs, Beagles have keen noses. They also have a tendency to chase small animals, so it is best to keep them in a fenced yard. Because of their compact sizes, they should do well in apartments.
18. Jack Russell Terrier
Often with a white coat combined with tan spots, Jack Russells are compact, solid, and sturdy dogs. These are low-key dogs because of their short hair that hardly sheds unless at the onset of the summer months.
Generally, these are easy-going pups with a moderate energy level. They do need early socialization and training, however, so they can adopt good behavior and master basic commands.
17. Dogo Argentino
Next up on our list of spotted dog breeds is the Dogo Argentino. Although they are typically white-colored pups, there are those with black spots in random parts of their body. These are short-coated pooches that barely shed, making them low-maintenance pets.
Dogo Argentinos are best suited for experienced owners because of their strong-willed and stubborn personalities. They are also great guard dogs as they possess strong instincts to protect their owners and their properties.
16. Australian Cattle Dog
A sheepherding dog breed, the Australian Cattle is another spotted pooch with medium-length hair in shades of white, gray, and black. The spots are often black-colored, while others may have white patches.
These are small dogs that should do fine in an apartment. But they require daily exercise because of their moderately high energy level, so they are ideal for folks with an active lifestyle.
15. Staffordshire Terrier
A robust, bulky, and solid dog, the Staffordshire Terrier commonly has a spotted coat in black or tan color. They are strong dogs that may appear intimidating, especially to strangers, because of their imposing stature.
While they may be a bit stubborn, they are obedient and highly trainable. It should be easy to teach them basic commands and tricks. Daily exercise for an hour should suffice for these pups.
14. Corgi
Corgis are another one of the popular spotted dog breeds, although they are more often seen with a combination of brown or tan and white or merle coat. However, spots may appear on both the Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh varieties.
These are little clown dogs that can put a smile on your face with their silly antics. They are also quirky and fun-loving creatures that are perfect companions and cuddle buddies.
13. Chihuahua
Chihuahuas come in a wide range of coat colors, including black, brown, white, and a combination of these colors. But there are also those with spots regardless of the coat color, which add to their interesting appeal.
Because of their loyal and obedient nature, they make great watchdogs. They may be small, but they can easily alert their owners whenever potential danger is sensed. Do take note that these are somewhat stubborn and strong-willed dogs, which is why early training is a must for them.
12. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Another outstanding hunting buddy, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons, or Griffs, are active pups who love to spend time outdoors. They have wiry and short coats in shades of brown, white, and with various spotting patterns.
These canines are medium-sized, while others can be quite large, weighing a little over 100 lbs. Energy-wise, they are very active and agile dogs that need plenty of exercises each day.
11. English Setter
A spotted canine breed that’s been around for many centuries, the English Setter is an excellent hunting companion. They often come with a white base combined with black or brown spots. Their hair is long and flowing, which makes them prone to shedding.
English Setters are easy-going and laid-back dogs. But because of their hunting instincts, they possess a strong prey drive. Thus, training them at a young age is essential to teach them how to get along well with other household pets, especially smaller ones.
10. American Hairless Terrier
American Hairless Terriers hail from Louisiana in the United States. They may either be hairless or short-haired, with both possessing spots. These dogs are a variant of another dog breed, the Rat Terrier.
As the name implies, they are hairless, although others may have a minimal face on the eyebrows, whiskers, and other parts of the face. Their spots are commonly found on the legs or on the back.
9. Great Dane
A gentle giant, the mighty Great Dane is another one of those spotted dog breeds that stand out from the crowd. In addition to their majestic build, it is their spotted coats that add to their extraordinary appeal.
These dogs do not require plenty of exercises. In fact, they prefer to cuddle up with you instead of running around the yard. They may also be a bit tricky to train, so it is best to start them at an early age and with a consistent training session.
8. Dachshund
Dachshunds are iconic dogs known for their long and low bodies resembling a sausage. No wonder they have been coined “sausage dogs”! They have short legs, long or short coats with some spots on their bodies.
Because of their size and build, they are excellent hunting dogs, especially for badgers. Their paws resemble a paddle, thus making them great diggers. These are also fearsome pups that are always ready to defend their owners.
7. Cocker Spaniel
Famous for their lush and curly golden coats, the adorable Cocker Spaniel is a delight to own. These dogs are also noted for their long ears and puppy-dog, sweet eyes. They may have black or white spots that get mixed up with the rest of their coat color.
A great family dog, Cocker Spaniels, do well with families, single homes, and seniors. They are not very active dogs as adults, so they should be perfect for apartment living.
6. American Bulldog
American Bulldogs typically have white coats but combined with brown spots. Some may have black coats with white spots, although these are not very common. But generally, they have short coats that keep grooming requirements to a minimum.
These are strong-willed dogs that are far more ideal for experienced owners. Training can be tricky, yet it must be done at a young age to avoid destructive behaviors. An hour of exercise is also necessary to prevent boredom and behavioral issues with these dogs.
5. English Bulldog
Just like the American Bulldog, the English Bulldog is known for its spotty coat. The base is often white with spots in various shades such as brindle, black, or tan. They don’t shed as much because of their short coat but may shed a bit more in the winter.
Although they have a strong desire to please their owners, these pups tend to swing towards stubbornness more. They can also be very independent creatures with a stubborn streak, which means a more experienced owner is best for these dogs.
4. Bluetick Coonhound
Bluetick Coonhounds are amazing hunting buddies because of their great sense of smell and high energy level. They have spots all over their bodies, and their coats come in shades of tan, black, and white.
With their energetic personality, they do better in homes with a large outdoor space or a yard. These dogs are not suitable for apartment living unless you make it a point to take them out for a walk each day and exercise for an hour or so.
3. German Shorthaired Pointer
These spotted dogs commonly have short coats and are in shades of white and brown with dark spots. They are also short-haired pooches, which means shedding is not an issue for those who decide to own these dogs.
German Shorthaired Pointers are very active dogs. They do well as hunting companions, especially when hunting for fowls. Regular exercise is an absolute must for their energetic fellows to keep them from getting bored.
2. Australian Shepherd
Australian Shepherds are fluffy pooches with spotted coats. They come in various shades, including merle or brown and white, as well as black and white. Because of their long, dense coats, these dogs shed quite heavily.
Being that these are herding dogs, they require plenty of exercises and physical activity. They are not suited for apartment living unless there is a wide area for them to roam around and play.
1. Catahoula Leopard Dog
A spotted dog breed, the Catahoula Leopard Dog, comes in a wide range of colors, including gray or white with dark spots or several colors all over. These pups also have bright blue eyes, while others may have one blue and one brown or green eye.
Catahoulas are active and strong-willed dogs. This is why they are better off with experienced owners who can provide firm and consistent training to these pups.
Related Questions
Why Do Dogs Have Spotted Bellies? Some dogs have spotted bellies as a result of the presence of higher melanin content. The more melanin, the darker the skin, which is why this happens in some adult canines and even young puppies.
Why Is My Dog Getting Spots On Her Skin? When a dog suddenly gets spots on the skin, this is referred to as hyperpigmentation. It may be due to a skin trauma such as skin inflammation caused by scratching or rashes. Other causes of hyperpigmentation are allergies caused by skin parasites and bacteria. In other cases, it could be a sign of hormonal disorders, a reaction to the medication, or physiological conditions.
Are Dogs Born With All Their Spots? Some dogs are not born with all their spots, and dog breeds, such as the Dalmatian and Australian Cattle Dog, are great examples. These dogs are often born with white coats but develop spots later on in their lives.
