1. MINIATURE PINSCHER

At first glance, you might mistake a Miniature Pinscher for a Chihuahua. Both breeds have a similar appearance with pointy ears, lean bodies, and stubby tails. Although these small black dog breeds look alike, their personalities are vastly different. Miniature Pinschers are very playful, friendly dogs. Their high energy and natural athleticism make them ideal walking, running, or hiking companions. The intelligent breed thrives on mental stimulation, making them easier to train than other small black dog breeds. The Miniature Pinscher or Zwergpinscher is a German breed of small dog of Pinscher type. While the breed's visual similarities to the Toy Manchester Terrier, which somewhat resembles the Pinscher breeds, remain a matter of controversy, genetic research has shown that the two breeds have shared, unique ancestry. Miniature Pinschers can be solid black, or more commonly, black with rust or tan markings. These distinct markings are a recognized and desirable trait for the breed.



2. SCOTTISH TERRIER

With their long, hairy beards and confident personalities, these terriers are a true representation of a Scotsman. The breed does originate from Scotland, after all, and is considered the oldest indigenous dog breed in Britain. Do not underestimate the small stature of Scottish Terriers – their natural hunting skills make them fantastic farm and working dogs. Scotties love to play and are nicknamed "diehard" because they won't give up on a game of tug or fetch until you say it is time to stop. These dogs do not need a lot of space and can live happily in a small home or apartment as long as they are getting enough exercise. Scottish Terriers require a bit more grooming compared to other small black dog breeds. As with most terrier breeds, they have a double coat that should be hand-stripped or professionally groomed every month. The Scottish Terrier sports a dual coat with a wiry outer layer and a soft undercoat. This small breed loves to burrow. Scotties are incredibly tough and considered loyal watchdogs to their humans. Because of their strong prey drive, owners should keep them leashed during outdoor activities so they do not take off after tiny critters. That combined with their size makes them a good fit for apartment living.



3. PUG

Searching for small black dog breeds to be your couch companion? A Pug may be the right choice for you! These pups do not need very much exercise and are fully content to have a lazy day with their human. Plus, their adorable wrinkly faces and sweet disposition are impossible not to cuddle. Pugs are one of the best small black dog breeds because of their quiet, affectionate nature. The breed is not yappy and will only bark to alert. Pugs are also great family dogs and tend to get along well with young children and other pups.



4. POMERANIAN

The Pomeranian might be tiny in size but is big in personality. These fluffy dogs love to be with their people as much as possible. They are spunky, playful, affectionate dogs that are active, but do not require a large exercise commitment. City dwellers looking for small black dog breeds should definitely consider adopting a Pomeranian. With their little bodies, Pomeranians do not need much space and can thrive in small homes or apartments. Most of these pups will weigh less than 7 pounds when they are fully grown, making them the perfect purse dog to tote around on errands. A fluffy, thick coat is the Pomeranian trademark look. They almost resemble little cotton balls! Be prepared to brush a Pom’s double coat frequently to prevent tangling and matting. Pomeranians are also prone to dental issues, so they need their teeth brushed regularly.



5. PORTUGUESE WATER DOG

The Portuguese Water Dog originated from the Algarve region of Portugal. From there the breed expanded to all around Portugal's coast, where they were taught to herd fish into fishermen's nets, retrieve lost tackle or broken nets, and act as couriers from ship to ship, or ship to shore. Portuguese Water Dogs are indeed the jack of all trades in medium black dog breeds. These pups are naturally social, affectionate, and easy to train. Plus, their gorgeous curly black coats are irresistible cuddle material. The breed originated in Portugal where these dogs would help fishermen retrieve tackle or herd fish into nets. Back in the day, Portuguese Water Dogs would even deliver ship-to-shore messages. Needless to say, these pups are always up for an outdoor adventure - especially if it involves swimming.



6. STAFFORDSHIRE

BULL TERRIER

Do not let the reputation of this breed fool you - Staffordshire Bull Terriers are one of the most gentle and loyal medium black dog breeds. Their muscular bodies might be intimidating, but Staffies are actually highly adaptable, easy to train, and good with young children. In the 19th century, Staffordshire Bull Terriers were often pitted against each other in dog fighting competitions. The breed developed a reputation for being dangerous after a history of being forced to dogfight. The reality is that Staffies are actually very well-behaved and loving when they are in a safe environment. As with any other breed, proper training and socialization will prevent aggressive behavior in Staffies.



7. PULI

Out of all medium black dog breeds, Pulis have the most extraordinary coats. Their fur can be coated into tiny, weatherproof dreadlocks that make these pups appear to be made completely out of black rope. Their dark coats can also be brushed out for a more shaggy look. Pulis are incredibly athletic–even with all the fur weighing them down. They are nicknamed the "acrobat of the dog world" and do well in agility, herding, and other dog sports. Pulis are highly intelligent and need a lot of mental stimulation through training, exercise, or work. The puli is vigorous, alert, and active, and needs abundant exercise to remain happy. If you do not want to maintain the dreadlocks, which is a lot of work, the coat can be trimmed in a low-maintenance short style.



8. SCHNAUZER

Schnauzers are a true family dog because they are great with kids, affectionate, and protective of their human family. These pups love to play and have a lot of energy to burn. Playing fetch or going on long hikes with the family are enjoyable activities for Schnauzers. If you'd rather have large black dog breeds, opt for the bigger Giant Schnauzer that can weigh anywhere from 55 to 110 pounds. Shoppers for small black dog breeds may also consider the 12 to 20-pound Miniature Schnauzer.



9. GREAT DANE

Looking for human-sized big black dog breeds? Great Danes may be the right fit for you. These dogs can weigh up to 175 pounds and stand 2.5 feet tall. The size of a Great Dane may seem daunting, but these pups are big softies that love kids and snuggle sessions with their pet parents. Great Danes thrive with daily walks or dedicated exercise time to burn their high energy levels. Since these pups are roughly the size of their pet parents, obedience training and socialization are highly recommended. It is much harder to control a 150-pound Great Dane when they are leash-pulling on walks! Despite their intimidating size, Great Danes are typically easy-going, gentle and affectionate dogs that are protective of their family, but patient, playful, and dependable with their people. A dog of this size does require a commitment to regular exercise and training, however. Great Danes are often solid black, but can be many other colors as well as color combinations.



10. LABRADOR RETRIEVER

For over three decades, Labrador Retrievers held the title of America’s most popular dog breed, before being dethroned by the French Bulldog in 2022. Labs come in three different colors – black, yellow, and chocolate and those with black fur are especially popular. A friendly personality combined with high intelligence makes the Labrador retriever a common choice for those seeking service or emotional support dogs. These playful and energetic pups also make a great fit for families with restless children up for the task of tiring them out. Bred to aid fishermen in the icy waters of Newfoundland, Labs are natural swimmers with a thick double coat to fare well in colder climates.








A D V E R T I S E M E N T










11. BLACK

NORWEGIAN ELKHOUND

The Black Norwegian Elkhound is a small Spitz breed classified by the FCI as a hunting dog. It is currently an uncommon breed in Norway and very rare outside the Nordic countries of Scandinavia. Black Norwegian Elkhound is pure black, but can have small, acceptable white markings on its feet and chest. The breed's coat should be a dense, double layer that is all black, but these minor white spots are not considered undesirable.



12. SWEDISH LAPPHUND

The Swedish Lapphund is a breed of dog of the Spitz type from Sweden, one of three Lapphund breeds developed from a type of dog used by the Sami people for herding and guarding their reindeer. Swedish Lapphunds are usually solid black, though they can also have some white markings on their chest, feet, and tail tip. While typically solid black, they can also sometimes appear with shades of "bear brown" or bronze, or a combination of black and brown.



13. CHINESE SHAR-PEI

The Shar-Pei is a dog breed from southern China. Traditionally kept as a property guardian, the shar pei was driven to the brink of extinction in the 20th century. The breed is known in the West for its deep wrinkles, while a traditional less wrinkled form is maintained in Hong Kong. Shar-Peis can absolutely be black, black is one of the acceptable and common solid coat colors for the breed, though other solid colors like fawn, red, and cream are also frequent. Black Shar-Peis are recognized by major kennel clubs, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), although the FCI accepts all solid colors except white.



14. PATTERDALE TERRIER

The Patterdale Terrier is a breed of dog descended from the Northern terrier breeds of the early 18th century, originally bred in Patterdale, Lake District. Patterdale Terriers are very often pure black, with black being the most common color for the breed, though white markings on the chest or feet are also acceptable in some standards. However, because Patterdale Terriers are not a formally recognized breed with a single standard, other colors like red, chocolate, and black and tan are also common.



15. BARBET

Barbets can be pure black; solid black is one of the most common and acceptable coat colors for the breed, alongside brown and other shades of black, gray, and fawn. They can also have white markings, or be pied - a mix of colors, often white with other colors.



16. THAI RIDGEBACK

The Thai Ridgeback is a dog from Thailand. Its origins are in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces in the eastern part of Thailand. The Thai Ridgeback is one of only three breeds that has a ridge of hair that runs along its back in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat Thai Ridgebacks can be black. They are one of the recognized coat colors for the breed, alongside red, fawn, and blue. Other less common or non-standard colors like brindle and white can also occur but are not accepted in the breed standard. Black-colored Thai Ridgebacks will also have a black nose and dark brown eyes, and the appearance of a black coat is considered a standard for the breed.



17. AUSTRALIAN KELPIE

The Australian Kelpie, or simply Kelpie, is an Australian sheepdog capable of mustering and droving with little or no guidance. It is a medium-sized dog and comes in a variety of colours. The Kelpie has been exported throughout the world and is used to muster livestock, primarily sheep, cattle and goats A purebred black Australian Kelpie is a specific color variation within the breed, which typically features a solid black coat without tan markings and is generally considered the standard color for a "pure" Kelpie, as opposed to other variations like black and tan. While other colors like red, chocolate, fawn, blue, and cream also exist, a solid black dog without tan is considered a pure and traditional color for the breed, according to the Casterton Kelpie Association.



18. BEAUCERON

The Beauceron is a herding dog breed originating from the plains of Central France. The Beauceron is also known as Berger de Beauce or Bas Rouge Beaucerons can be completely black, though the breed's standard colors are typically black and tan or harlequin (gray, black, and tan). A solid black Beauceron may occur naturally as a result of the genetic combination for the tan markings, or the tan markings may be very minimal.



19. BELGIAN SHEPHERD

Few canines can slink through the shadows as well as an all-black dog with not one, but three, aliases! Also known as Belgian shepherd or Groenendael, this handsome and hardy long-haired pup is known for his herding abilities. But while a Belgian sheepdog might know he has a job to do, he's also quite sensitive and sweet, eager to follow you everywhere! The Belgian Shepherd (or Belgian Sheepdog) is one of four recognized varieties of the Belgian shepherding dogs, a cattle-herding group of dog breeds from Belgium with roots in dairy farming. Their thick double coats are often solid black or black and white with spotted markings. They are considered loyal companions and are still used for guarding, making them a bit standoffish when it comes to strangers. But above all, the Belgian Shepherd is loving, energetic, and easily trained.



20. AFFENPINSCHER

The Affenpinscher is a toy breed whose name translates to "monkey terrier" in German, a name derived from their ape-like appearance. Their black wiry coats can get knotted up easily and require a good amount of grooming. Their low shedding makes them good companions for owners with allergies, even though they are not truly hypoallergenic - there is no such thing!. Affenpinschers are not especially high-energy and will prefer couch cuddle sessions to long outdoor hikes. That said, they are also very playful and love any activities that stimulate them both mentally and physically. Not only are affenpinschers playful and full of mischievous charm, but they're also exceedingly intelligent. Keep these eager black dogs engaged with training, then prepare for contented snuggles later.



21. RAT TERRIER

Rat Terrier can be black, but they are never solid black; the breed standard requires some white markings, making them bi-colored (like black and white), or tri-colored (like black, tan, and white). Accepted colors include black, blue, or chocolate with white, or combinations with other colors like red, sable, apricot, or lemon.



22. FLAT-COATED

RETRIEVER

Flat-coated Retrievers are not only one of the happiest dog breeds but may be among the happiest creatures in the animal world. Their high energy levels paired with their goofy personas provide endless entertainment for their humans and visitors. They get along well with kids, strangers, and other pets, making them easy to bring along with you. What sets flat-coated retrievers apart from other retrievers is their shiny and slightly wavy black or liver coats with no patterns or makings. Bouncy, silly, and fun-loving, the flat-coated retriever is often mistaken for a black-coated golden retriever, a more familiar breed. Flat-coated retrievers are more active and athletic and require more exercise. The breed's lustrous, straight coat lies flat, hence its name. The flat-coated retriever comes in two solid colors: black and liver (chocolate brown), although black is far more common.



23. SCHIPPERKE

This poofy cutie is always ready to go! A super energetic playmate for children and other pets (yes, even cats!), a schipperke has more than a little spunk and curiosity, so positive reinforcement training is a must. He'll jump right into it, though, as he loves spending time with hoomans and learning new tricks. Most commonly seen with black coats, Schipperkes are considered very loyal to their humans - so much so that you will want to make sure they are properly exercised before leaving them alone or they’ll resort to barking, chewing, and other destructive behaviors. The good news is they have a moderate level of energy and will only require around 30 minutes of daily exercise to tucker out. At home, these little fur balls will want a lot of attention, and thrive best with owners willing and able to give it to them. The schipperke is small but has the energy to spare and loves to accompany their favorite people on all their adventures. Excellent watchdogs, schipperkes are wary of strangers and protective of their homes and people.



24. DOBERMAN PINSCHER

Black with brown patches around the legs, chest, muzzle, and eyes make up the typical coat color of these big dogs of German ancestry. Dobermans make for great family dogs and love to go on long walks and play with their humans. Although they have a reputation as watchdogs, they can be very friendly with visitors so long as they’ve been properly trained and socialized. They shed a good amount for a short-haired dog and will need to be groomed regularly. The Doberman pinscher is the quintessential watchdog. Alert, loyal, and fearless, these dogs can be ferocious in defense of their families. And yet, with their favorite people they are affectionate and playful dogs with high intelligence and lots of energy. Their smooth short coats are typically mostly black with rusty-brown trim, although rarely they can also be blue and rust or red and rust.



25. GIANT SCHNAUZER

A king among big black dogs, the Giant Schnauzer was bred in 17th-century southern Germany to be a larger version of the Standard Schnauzer. With their impressive height and powerful build, they were used for guarding stables, protecting property, and driving livestock to market. As such, this robust working breed has an independent nature and high drive. They do well in homes where they have a specific job and pet parents who are committed to their training and exercise. They’ll need regular grooming, too, to keep their wiry black coat from matting. Part of a breed trio that includes miniature and standard sizes, the giant schnauzer is more likely to be the solid black dog among them. Adept as a competitive show champion or a dedicated companion, this affectionate, high-energy good girl is a working dog by nature, so new pet owners need to keep her busy with many tasks and tricks. The giant schnauzer was originally bred to drive cattle, but has also served as a military and police dog. These imposingly large beauties are very energetic and intelligent, and are quite affectionate with their families, but do require a great deal of exercise and training to reign in their tendencies towards protectiveness and overly high spirits.



26. NEWFOUNDLAND

The majestic Newfoundland is massive but also known as a gentle giant that is usually great with children. A working dog, Newfies were used by Canadian fishermen to perform water rescues in icy waters. Newfoundlands were well-suited to the task, with a heavy, water-resistant coat, muscular, strong bodies, and webbed feet. The Newfie is also an all-purpose worker on land, pulling carts and guarding the home. The thick, double coat requires brushing several times a week to prevent mats. Also, be prepared for a bit of slobber. Their coat most commonly comes in black, although they also come in brown, gray, or black and white. Truly an awesome sight with mounds of thick, black fur, this gentle giant weighs in with 100–150 pounds of love! Totally mellow and terrific companions for children, a Newfoundland or "Newf" is also a dedicated working dog, so if you like to fish or have a farm, this exceptional fella will be a great asset and happy to help anytime.



27. NEAPOLITAN MASTIFF

The Neapolitan Mastiff is one of today's rarer breeds. It is another one of the gentle giants on our list, though their sheer intimidating size makes them powerful. Its personality is that of an easygoing companion but make no mistake: if someone threatens its family, it will go into protective mode. They have a lot of wrinkles and saggy skin, but beneath is a very muscular dog. This black dog can sometimes look dusty, depending on its specific coloring, though black is by far the most common color. They have short coats that require minimal upkeep, though it is a good idea to regularly bathe them since the slobber tends to get caught in their skin folds. A black mastiff dog is sweet, loyal, and devoted to their people, but maybe not so interested in others. The best plan is for an experienced dog owner to socialize and train their Neapolitan mastiffs early on so that he is always living his best life. We can not help you control the slobber, though - just keep a beach towel handy.



28. GERMAN SHEPHERD

Black color is a recessive gene for most German shepherds, as they are more commonly dashing in a sable coat. Still, color does not affect some of their best traits, including being an intelligent and adventurous hiking pal, a dedicated family dog, and, when trained properly, an all-around friendly buddy to other pets at home. German Shepherds are typically known for their tan and black or red and black coloring, but there are some that are pure black. Heavy shedders, they have dense double coats that range from medium to long with thick, bushy tails. Developed for herding sheep, German Shepherds now have a reputation as a multi-purpose working breed. You’ll find them as police, guide, and detection dogs, to name a few. As pets, German Shepherds are loyal, confident, energetic, and alert - they are always ready to protect their humans! They’re also one of the smartest breeds around and do well with positive, consistent training and plenty of physical and mental enrichment.



29. DUTCH SHEPHERD

Hailing from the Netherlands, this smaller, stocky shepherd cousin is just as smart but more likely to be an all-black dog. Once almost extinct, the loyal Dutch shepherd excels at herding and law enforcement duties. So if these are not part of his daily routine, make sure he is engaged with regular obedience, agility, and scent work training. Hailing from the Netherlands, the Dutch Shepherd has a gorgeous appearance with almond-shaped eyes and a sleek silhouette. They make excellent family pets because of their obedience and affectionate nature. They are great at herding though, so do not be surprised if they try to do it at your home - old habits die hard, after all. The coat on the Dutch Shepherd can vary between short and long, with a wiry texture. It is a medium-sized breed with heights running from 22 to 24 inches and an average weight of around 65 pounds. They tend to live 11 to 14 years.



30. AFGHAN HOUND

The Afghan Hound is a majestic-looking pup with a tall stature and long, flowing fur. They’re very popular show dogs and tend not to shed nearly as much as other breeds. The personality of an Afghan Hound is a mix of goofy, happy, and aloof. Posing like a 1920s silent film star and just as independent and sensitive, Afghan hounds are the epitome of glamorous black long-haired dogs. She doesn't shed much, but as you might imagine, her grooming routine is extensive. An Afghan is athletic, independent, and super fast - some can run up to 40 miles per hour, which means experienced dog owners make the best prospective pet parents for this majestic gazelle of a breed.



31. ROTTWEILER

The Rottweiler is a breed of domestic mastiff type dog, regarded as medium-to-large or large. The dogs were known in German as Rottweiler Metzgerhund, meaning Rottweil butchers' dogs, because their main use was to herd livestock and pull carts laden with butchered meat to market.The rottweiler, or rottie, is a descendant of ancient Roman cattle dogs, but has had many service jobs over the centuries, including work as guard dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and service dogs. While intimidating in appearance and somewhat aloof with strangers, they are calm, gentle, affectionate dogs with their families. Their smooth short coat is mostly black with rust, tan, or mahogany trim.



32. SKYE TERRIER

Skye Terrier can be black. Black is one of the recognized coat colors for the breed, along with other shades such as gray, blue, silver, fawn, and cream. These colors can sometimes be accompanied by darker points on the ears, muzzle, and tail. The Skye Terrier is a Scottish breed of terrier. It is long, low, hardy and short-legged, and in the twenty-first century is among the most endangered breeds of the United Kingdom.



33. BELGIAN MALINOIS

Yes, black Belgian Malinois exist but are considered a non-standard color by kennel clubs like the AKC, which recognizes the breed's standard colors as fawn to mahogany with black overlay. The occurrence of a solid black coat in Malinois is often due to influence from the Groenendael, the black variety of the Belgian Shepherd, though some breeders still produce black Malinois within the Malinois standard, according to a YouTube video. The Belgian Shepherd, also known as the Belgian Sheepdog or the Chien de Berger Belge, is a Belgian breed of herding dog of medium size.



34. BLACK

RUSSIAN TERRIER

The Black Russian Terrier, also known as the Chornyi Terrier, is a breed of dog from the USSR. It was originally bred in the Red Star Kennel during the late 1940s and the early 1950s for use as a military/working dog The black Russian terrier looks like a giant schnauzer, with a similar body outline, plus a long beard and mustache. This black dog breed only comes in black and is affectionately called a "blackie" for short. The schnauzer breed was used among others, to develop the black Russian terrier. If you stand the two side by side, the massive black Russian terrier is more than twice the size of the giant schnauzer. This working dog requires an expert owner used to training powerful, strong-willed dogs. The coarse double coat requires twice-weekly brushing and regular clipping.



35. CHIHUAHUA

Yes, Chihuahuas can absolutely be black, though a solid, pure black coat is rare. Black is a common color in the breed, often seen as part of a black and white or black and tan coat pattern, and is an accepted color by the American Kennel Club (AKC) for both short and long-haired Chihuahuas The polar opposite to the Great Dane when it comes to black dogs, the Chihuahua usually weighs no more than 6 pounds. However, they have a lot of spunk in that little body! They have big-dog attitude. With their round heads and big ears and coming in short or long coats, Chihuahuas make wonderful and portable companions.



36. DACHSHUND

The dachshund, also known as the wiener dog, or sausage dog, badger dog, doxen and doxie, is a short-legged, long-bodied, hound-type dog breed. The dog may be smooth-haired, wire-haired, or long-haired, with varied coloration. Dachshunds can be entirely black or black with tan markings, as black is a recognized base color for the breed. While solid black is quite rare, black and tan is a common and well-known Dachshund color, typically appearing with tan points on the muzzle, over the eyes, on the feet, and under the tail.



37. BULL TERRIER

The Bull Terrier is a breed of dog in the terrier family. There is also a miniature version of this breed, the Miniature Bull Terrier. This breed originates in England, where the bull and terrier breeds were originally bred for vermin control and bloodsports. Bull Terriers can be black; they can also be red, brindle, or fawn, either solid or with white markings. A solid black Bull Terrier with no white is referred to as black brindle solid if it has brindle markings, but otherwise can be considered black and tan or tri-color depending on the specific combination of colors. The pure white Bull Terrier is a specific variant that can have some color markings on its head.



38. MUDI

The Mudi is a herding dog breed from Hungary. It is closely related to the Puli and Pumi, from which it was separated in the 1930s. They continue to be used in herding, as well as participating in a variety of dog sports. Yes, a Mudi can be pure black; "Black" is one of the officially recognized colors for the Mudi breed, and it means a solid black coat with no other colors or shading present.



39. CANE CORSO

Black Cane Corso is a recognized and common color for the breed, along with black brindle, gray, gray brindle, fawn, red, and chestnut brindle. Black is one of the most common and sought-after colors, produced by the genetically dominant pigment melanin. The cane corso is a powerful black dog breed that dates back to ancient Rome. They are strong and muscular working dogs, and can weigh up to 120 pounds, but they are also gentle giants around the people they care about, so their looks are deceiving. They have a coarse, short double coat, and the undercoat’s length will depend on where they live, as dogs that live in a colder environment will have an undercoat that is thicker and longer. They shed throughout the year and more heavily in the spring, but a weekly brushing should be sufficient. In addition to black, their coat can be various other colors.



40. FRENCH BULLDOG

French Bulldog can be entirely black, although this is a less common color. Solid black is considered a disqualifying color under the official American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard, but the term "black" can refer to a solid black coat without any other markings, which is a rare, recessive trait, or to black brindle, which has predominantly black hairs with some fawn. The adorable Frenchie is smart, playful, affectionate, and trainable, making them an ideal family dog. Their large ears add to their alert expression, and indeed, they are good watchdogs despite their fairly small size. They love to play with children, but do not have excessive needs for exercise, and their short coats are easy to groom. While Frenchies are often solid black, technically the AKC does not recognize black as an official breed color. They can be many other colors or color combinations as well.



41. BORDER COLLIE

an all-black Border Collie can exist, though they are less common than the typical black and white or other colored Border Collies. The American Kennel Club breed standard recognizes black as a valid color for the breed. While many Border Collies will have some white or tan markings, a Border Collie can be solid black, or black with limited white markings. Considered to be one of the most intelligent dog breeds, the border collie is highly trainable, very active, affectionate, curious, and athletic. These dogs need to be kept busy, or else frustration can lead them to excessive barking or undesirable behaviors. With enough exercise and playtime, however, they are fun family dogs that get along great with children and most other pets. They are most often black and white, but can be solid black as well as many other solid colors or color combinations.



42. CHOW CHOW

Chow chows are one of the oldest dog breeds, with roots stretching back to ancient China. Dignified, calm, and somewhat aloof, they are distinguished by their dark tongues, which are purplish black. While intelligent and trainable, they are not demanding in their need for exercise and playtime, although they are affectionate with their families. Their thick coats are often solid black, although they can also be blue, red, cinnamon, or cream.



43. GREYHOUND

The fastest breed of dog, greyhounds can reach up to 45 mph while racing. But off the track, these dogs are gentle, calm, and good-natured. They are affectionate and do have a lot of energy, so you will need to let them stretch their legs daily. But their grooming needs are low, and their short coats shed very little. Greyhounds can be solid black, black and brindle, or several other colors and color combinations. In fact, black is one of the most common coat colors for a greyhound, and also the color that is least adopted from shelters, often due to unfounded superstitions. Black greyhounds can have a solid black coat, or they may have other markings like white, or even white ticking in rare cases.



44. CURLY-COATED RETRIEVER

The Curly-coated Retriever is a breed of dog originally bred in England for upland bird and waterfowl hunting. It is the tallest of the retrievers and is easily distinguishable by the mass of tight curls covering its body. A black Curly-Coated Retriever is a dog with a coat of small, tight, waterproof curls that covers its body from neck to tail, with a few small white hairs on the chest allowed by breed standards. The breed also comes in a dark liver color. These large, athletic dogs are known for their elegant appearance, high energy, and affectionate, if somewhat reserved, nature, making them excellent hunting companions and family pets. Curly-Coated Retrievers can absolutely be black, in fact, solid black and solid liver are the only two accepted coat colors for the breed. Their unique, waterproof, curly coat offers protection in the water and against thorns and briars.



45. STANDARD POODLE

The standard poodle is highly intelligent, curious, playful, and trainable. These dogs were originally bred to retrieve waterfowl for hunters, but also were popular dogs for circus acts. Along with the miniature and toy poodle, standard poodles are often solid black or black and white, although they can also be many other colors. Their soft, curly hair sheds very little and this breed is usually considered to be hypoallergenic as well.



46. ENGLISH COCKER SPANIEL

The standard poodle is highly intelligent, curious, playful, and trainable. These dogs were originally bred to retrieve waterfowl for hunters, but also were popular dogs for circus acts. Along with the miniature and toy poodle, standard poodles are often solid black or black and white, although they can also be many other colors. Their soft, curly hair sheds very little and this breed is usually considered to be hypoallergenic as well.



47. BLACK & TAN COONHOUND

The Black and Tan Coonhound is a breed of hunting dog. Developed in the United States from crosses between the Bloodhound and the Black and Tan Virginia Foxhound, this scent hound runs its game entirely by scent and is used primarily for raccoon hunting.



48. TIBETAN MASTIFF

Tibetan Mastiffs can be solid black. Their double coat can also be a variety of other colors, including blue-gray, brown, gold, and black and tan. They may also have distinct markings on their eyes, muzzle, and chest, with colors ranging from light silver to deep mahogany. The Tibetan Mastiff is a large Tibetan dog breed. Its double coat is medium to long, subject to climate.



49. TIBETAN SPANIEL

Tibetan Spaniel can be solid black or a combination of black with other colors, such as in black and tan, black and silver, or black with white markings. The breed standard accepts a wide range of colors, including red, gold, cream, fawn, white, and sable, as well as various multi-colored patterns.



50. BORZOI

The Borzoi or Russian Hunting Sighthound is a Russian breed of hunting dog of sighthound type. It was formerly used for wolf hunting until 1936, the breed was known as the Russian Wolfhound Borzois can be completely black, although they are more commonly seen in other colors like white, red, cream, or brindle. The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes a wide variety of colors for Borzois, including solid black, as there are no color restrictions for the breed.



51. AFRICANIS

The Africanis is a landrace dog, not a formal breed, indigenous to southern Africa that evolved naturally for centuries through environmental adaptation rather than human breeding. These hardy, self-reliant dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, adaptability, and natural ability to hunt, guard, and herd. Though previously considered a mongrel, DNA evidence confirms the Africanis is a distinct group with a genetic makeup dating back to ancient dogs from the Nile Delta. Africanis dog can be pure black, as they can come in any color or combination of colors, including solid black, though fawn, brown, brindle, and black with white markings are common. Their coats vary greatly in color, reflecting their long history as a diverse and adaptable "traditional" dog with minimal standardization by human intervention.



52. WOLFDOG

Wolfdogs can be black due to their domestic dog ancestry, which introduced a melanistic gene responsible for black coloration to wolf populations. Black wolfdogs are born entirely black but undergo a process called "phasing," where their coat gradually lightens to silver or white over several years. Some black-phase wolfdogs may retain more dark coloration as they age, while others become almost entirely silver.