Black dog breeds evoke many different beliefs at first glance: most of them look regal and complicated. Some have a hint of mystery, but others look daring or intimidating. Regardless of their coat or color, their personalities change. Some could stick near the general description of the breed’s disposition, but it depends most on the individual dog’s behavior and reproduction.
A black dog breeds color due to the type of pigmentation that the dog has from the epidermis. In the canine world, black is the dominant receptor.
A puppy either has black-brown or yellow-red pigmentation genetically. The rest of the colors result from various genetic factors or modifiers behaving on those pigments.
Pigmentation affects the dog’s hair, skin, and eyes and generates patterns and color. To get a puppy to look black, the dog has to have three genes:
B to get black pigmentation,
D for dense coloration, and
C for full color.
These are all dominant genes.
So, it’s common to find black dog breeds are one of many distinct kinds of dogs. But seven breeds have the maximum likelihood of becoming all-black dogs.
When deciding upon the best breed for you, coat color is the least significant feature. Consider a breed’s character, size, and exercise needs first. After all, that’s decided, then you can choose the color you love best.
Listed below are 7 of the most common black dog breeds.
1. Affenpinscher
Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy (AKC)
HEIGHT: 9 to 11.5 inches
WEIGHT: 7 to 10 Pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Wiry and shaggy jacket; commonly comes from black and will come in grey, silver, red, tan and black, or beige
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 15 years
The American Kennel Club classifies the affenpinscher as a toy group dog for its small 10-pound size and 11-inch prestige. Affenpinscher is German for”fighter terrier,” which is understandable as soon as you see their cute pushed-in face. Affenpinschers have solid and bold temperaments and are enchanting and entertaining companions. Their wiry coat needs biweekly brushing to prevent mats and requires trimming every few months.
2. Black Russian
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 26 to 30 inches
WEIGHT: 100 to 150 pounds (male); 80 to 120 pounds (females)
COAT AND COLOR: Medium-length double coat is always black
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12 years
The black Russian terrier looks like a giant schnauzer, with a comparable body outline and a long beard and mustache. This strain comes in black and is affectionately called a “blackie” for short.
People used the schnauzer breed to develop the black Russian terrier. If you stand both sides by side, the massive black Russian terrier is over twice the size of the giant schnauzer. This working dog requires an expert owner used to strong-willed training dogs. The coarse double coat demands twice-weekly cleaning and routine clipping.
3. Belgian sheepdog
Breed Overview
HEIGHT: 22 to 26 inches
WEIGHT: 45 to 75 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Thick double jacket is black
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 14
Intelligent and watchful, the gorgeous Belgian sheepdog can be named the Groenendael to get a spot in Brussels. Of the four related Belgian sheepherding strains, the Belgian sheepdog is the only one that comes in black. The others will be the Belgian Malinois, the Belgian Laekenois, and also the Belgian Tervuren. Known as”workaholics,” Belgian sheepdogs are exceptionally trainable and full of energy. The glossy black coat requires only weekly cleanup and the occasional bath. You can take care of it quickly.
4. Flat-Coated Retriever
Breed Overview
GROUP: Sporting (AKC)
HEIGHT: 22 to 24.5 inches
WEIGHT: 55 to 70 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Moderate-length coat that lies flat; stems from solid black or brownish
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 8 to 10 years
Bouncy, absurd, and fun-loving, the flat-coated retriever is frequently confused for a black-coated gold retriever, a more familiar breed. Flat-coated retrievers are more athletic and active and require more exercise. The breed’s glistening, straight coat lies flat against the body (hence its name). The flat-coated retriever comes in 2 solid colors: black and liver (chocolate brown). However, black is far more common.
5. Labrador Retriever
Breed Overview
GROUP: Sporting (AKC)
WEIGHT: 55 to 80 Pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Short, dense double coat comes in chocolate, black, or yellow
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 12
In the United States for almost three decades, the Labrador retriever remained the number one spot as the most popular dog breed. Friendly and trainable, Labs are known to be excellent dogs for households.
The short coat is water-resistant and sheds considerably. So regular brushing will cut down on hair lying around the house.
This athletic dog needs a lot of exercises every day, rather than off-leash games or running or fetch.
6. Pug
Breed Overview
GROUP: Toy (AKC)HEIGHT: 10 to 13 In.
WEIGHT: 14 to 18 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Smooth, short double coat
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 13 to 15 Decades
A pug’s main job is to be a loving and loyal canine companion. This toy group dog has a tan or fawn-colored coat with a black mask and ears. But they also come in solid black. The Pug’s breed standard uses the Latin term multum in parvo. Parvo means”a whole lot in a bit.” The phrase perfectly describes the solidly constructed, lively Pug in both body and personality. Its short coat sheds a good deal, so regular brushing is a must.
7. Royal Newfoundland
Breed Overview
GROUP: Working (AKC)
HEIGHT: 26 to 28 inches
WEIGHT: 100 to 150 pounds
COAT AND COLOR: Big and heavily boned, but nicely balanced; along with black, Newfies come in brown, grey, or black and white (known as Landseer)
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 9 to 10 years
The Royal Newfoundland is enormous but also called a gentle giant that’s usually great with children. A working dog, Newfies were used by Canadian fishermen to do water rescues in arctic waters. Newfoundlands were well-suited to the task, with a heavy, water-resistant coating, muscular, powerful bodies, and webbed feet. The Newfie is likewise an all-purpose employee on the property, pulling carts and guarding the home. The thick, thick double coat needs brushing several times every week to prevent mats. Also, be ready for a little bit of drool. Their skin most commonly comes in black, although they also come in brown, grey, or black and white.