We think black dog breeds are the best. Whether tiny and mighty or big and bashful, a black dog is just beautiful. But did you know that black dogs are often the last to be adopted in shelters? There’s even a Black Dog Day celebrated every October to help get these pups with black coats adopted. 

Well we’re here to share the various  breeds of dogs with black coats and what makes them the perfect match for any family. 

Those shiny dark coats of fur make a dog’s eyes pop. Plus, black dog breeds don’t require as much grooming as light-colored pups since their coats are harder to stain. Choose the best pup for you with this guide on small, medium, and big black dog breeds. 

Small Black Dog Breeds

Scottish Terrier

Weight: 18-22 pounds

Height: 10 inches

Coat Type: Wiry, medium-length, double coat, light shedding

Lifespan: 12 years

Personality Traits: Confident, independent, watchful

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. 

Don’t 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’s time to stop. These dogs don’t 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. 

Miniature Pinscher

Weight: 8-10 pounds

Height: 10-12.5 inches

Coat Type: Smooth, short-length, medium shedding 

Lifespan: 12-16 years

Personality Traits: Fearless, proud, fun

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. 

Pug

Weight: 14-18 pounds

Height: 10-13 inches

Coat Type: Smooth, short coat, medium shedding 

Lifespan: 13-15 years

Personality Traits: Lovable, mischievous, lazy

Searching for small black dog breeds to be your couch companion? A Pug may be the right choice for you! These pups don’t 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 isn’t 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. 

Pomeranian

Weight: 3-7 pounds

Height: 6-7 inches

Coat Type: Long, double coat, low shedding 

Lifespan: 12-16 years

Personality Traits: Lively, playful, trainable 

City dwellers looking for small black dog breeds should definitely consider adopting a Pomeranian. With their little bodies, Pomeranians don’t 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. 

Medium Dog Breeds

Portuguese Water Dog