Darker than soot - top 10 black dog breeds: large and small

American Staffordshire Terrier

The Amstaff as a breed appeared a little over a hundred years ago, at the end of the 19th century. At that time, representatives of the breed were called pit bull terriers. Registered under its current name in 1936. For a long time it was not known anywhere except the USA. After it appeared in Europe, it was accepted with success, but the reputation of the breed was spoiled by stories about the aggression of its representatives. Some countries have banned keeping Amstaffs. Only thanks to the active actions of dog breeders, the breed was preserved, and in 1971 the International Canine Federation adopted a breed standard. Red is one of the main colors of this breed.

Amstaffs are short-haired and easy to care for. They are agile and strong, and really need daily physical activity (at least three hours). They combine the best qualities of a bulldog and terrier. They are brave and self-confident, extremely loyal to their owners.

Shepherd huskies

Representatives of this species of huskies, as a rule, do not have pronounced hunting instincts. Their main purpose is grazing livestock. This category includes:

• Nenets varnish;
• Norwegian Buhund.

Unlike hunting representatives, shepherds do not show pronounced hostility towards other animals.

Nenets

This is a universal type of dog, used as a hunter and shepherd, as evidenced by the second name - the reindeer spitz. It is one of the oldest indigenous breeds in Russia.

In the northern part of the country, the Spitz is mainly used for herding deer. Rarely used as a fur-bearing animal hunter, wild deer.

The height of dogs at the withers varies from 40 to 52 cm. Males are slightly larger than females. Acceptable colors are white, black, piebald, brown of any intensity, zone gray, red. The Reindeer Spitz has elongated guard hairs and a thick undercoat, which create the appearance of a lush coat.

Norwegian Buhund

Known as the Norwegian Husky or Norwegian Shepherd. The breed originated in Norway. The dog has compact dimensions: males are 43-47 cm tall, females are 41-45 cm tall. Animals weigh from 12 to 18 kg. Recognized by the International Film Festival.

According to the standard, 2 colors are preferred: black and wheaten, varying from light red to golden red. A mask and the presence of small white spots on the fur are also acceptable.

This breed of Laika dog is used as a watchman, shepherd and companion. The Norwegian Buhund has a highly developed guarding instinct.

The main drawback is frequent barking, which must be eliminated from puppyhood through proper training.

Akita Inu

A very energetic and active breed. Dogs that have long been kept by the Japanese nobility. Belongs to the Spitz group. Akita Inus are large, can reach 75 cm in height and 50 kg in weight. The loyalty and devotion of the representatives of the breed is best told by the fact that the legendary dog ​​Hachiko belonged to her. They don’t like to bark, but they are very talkative - they snort, grumble, and whine. They are incredibly curious by nature and stubborn to the same extent - they don’t like it when something doesn’t work out for them. They need to be trained from childhood, but you need to know that they are not very trainable. Therefore, if you are a novice dog breeder, there is a chance that this breed will not suit you.

Akita Inu considers himself a full member of the family in which he lives. Enjoys playing with children. It is more difficult for him with other animals - he needs to be socialized from a very early age.

The breed has a thick coat with a dense undercoat; it needs to be brushed every week, and during intense shedding - daily. They do not need washing often - about three times a year, but each time using dog shampoo.

Golden retriever

Representatives of these “tailed animals” have a well-built torso with prominent muscles, massive shoulders and large limbs. They are distinguished by round eyes and a large black nose. The breed is famous for its standard silky coat, which lies close to the body, and its abundant undercoat, which has water-repellent properties. There may be slight waviness in the dog's coat.

The Canine Association defines the golden color standard as all shades, from rich golden to creamy snow-white and creamy. Setter and mahogany colors are not allowed. A small white spot is allowed on the dog's chest. It is noted that with age, puppies darken and acquire an orange tone.

Irish Red Setter

Like other representatives of the “setter quartet”, it belongs to the family of cops. The peculiarity of the Irish Red is its rich, monochromatic coat color. He has a lean build, weighs up to 34 kg, and is up to 66 cm tall.

A breed originally intended for hunting. He “calculates” the game easily, sneaks after it like a cat, crouching to the ground so that the prey does not fly away. It can remain silent for a long time if it is hunting. Gets along well with the owner, does not like other dogs. He doesn't make a watchman; he's too sociable and friendly. A very smart breed.

Needs daily hour-long runs (better even more), loves to take long walks outside. If he is in the mood, he follows commands. The setter needs to be constantly trained, both physically and mentally. If this is not done, he will turn into a wayward and disobedient dog. At the same time, it is completely undesirable to use force, then the setter will be neither good-natured nor obedient. If a dog is playing with a child, it is best to keep an eye on them. When they see a bird or a rodent, the hunter in them wakes up.

Careful care is required. Firstly, regular brushing. Secondly, protection from dirt with a special overall, since too frequent washing harms the natural lubrication of the skin. In addition, it is necessary to regularly clean the dog’s ears (at least once a week), since otitis media often occurs in representatives of the breed. Eyes are cleaned as needed. They should be fed only with special food; in addition, setters drink a lot. You should have a supply of water while walking.

Long-haired dog breeds

Afghan Hound

The Afghan Hound has much in common with the Saluki; the breed originated in Afghanistan and was used for guarding and service. The average weight of a pet is 35 kg. The breed is distinguished by its long coat of cream, beige with black markings. By nature, they are patient, obedient, devoted and savvy animals who love children.

Bobtail

The bobtail first appeared in England, the name translates as “Old English Sheepdog.” Previously, the breed was used for grazing livestock, now as a companion. The size of the bobtail is large, the coat is long, thick with curls. The main shade is gray with blue, marble, blue with black. The character is characterized by kindness, sociability and attentiveness. The peculiarity of the animal is its loud bark.

Yorkshire Terrier

The Yorkshire Terrier dog is a small, decorative dog that originated in England and is considered one of the most popular pets in the world. The animal's coat is long, silky, and becomes lighter with age. The main color is golden, bronze, cream, often several shades at once. The terrier is distinguished by fearlessness, courage, activity, and playfulness.

Collie

Collie (Scottish Sheepdog) is a medium breed of dog, bred for herding livestock in England and Scotland. Now the pet is used for canine competitions or as a companion. Average size - 25 kg, has muscular paws. The coat is long, sometimes rough. The main colors are black, red, tan, sable. The animal's temperament includes endurance, intelligence, activity, and sociability.

English cocker spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel was bred in England for hunting and later became a friend and companion for many owners. The dog has a medium build, weighing up to 15 kg. The coat is long, silky, the main color is red, black, tan and black with blue. The dog's character is characterized by mobility, energy, peacefulness, and attentiveness to the owner's mood.

It is important that your cocker spaniel gets plenty of walks, active play, and training. It is better to keep it in a country house to satisfy the hunting instinct.

Maltese (Maltese)

The Maltese is a small breed that first appeared in Malta. The main feature is long, thick wool of a snow-white shade. Average weight – 3 kg. The main highlight of the breed is its tenderness and sensitivity, intelligence. The dog is also characterized by mobility, savvy, courage, and loyalty to the owner. As a child, the Maltese bites and snaps, so it requires training.

Newfoundland

The Newfoundland dog was bred in Canada for work and hunting. The main feature of the breed is its long, thick coat of black, black-white or brown shade. Belongs to the Molosser breed, the maximum weight of the pet is 67 kg. By temperament, they are calm, balanced, intelligent and flexible animals. It is better to keep it in a country house, as it requires a lot of space for walking, is easy to train and makes decisions on its own.

Pomeranian Spitz

The Pomeranian Spitz is a decorative breed that originated in Germany, the province of Pomerania. The main feature of the dog is its long, soft and fluffy fur, as well as a small fox-like muzzle. Wool comes in ten shades, but the most popular are black, black and tan, cream, red, and blue and tan. Despite its small size, the dog is fearless, playful, active, and loves children.

Remember that the Pomeranian Spitz is characterized by aggressiveness and jealousy, so the pet needs to be given a lot of time, raised and trained.

Pekingese

The Chinese Pekingese is a small breed of apartment dog that originated several thousand years ago in China. It is interesting that the Chinese themselves call dogs “fu” and consider them protective spirits. The coat comes in several shades, but black and red Pekingese are more common. The weight of the animal does not exceed 5 kg. By nature, they are playful, spoiled, independent pets.

Saint Bernard

The long-haired Saint Bernard originated in Switzerland and Italy and is believed to be a descendant of Tibetan mastiffs, which were used to climb the Alps. The dog has a large body, thick coat of white or red color with spots. The main feature of the St. Bernard's character is loyalty and obedience; they are also characterized by attentiveness and love for family.

Tibetan mastiff

The Tibetan Mastiff is considered one of the oldest breeds that originated in Tibet and previously lived in monasteries. Externally, it is a large pet, weighing up to 75 kg. The mastiff's coat is thick, with an undercoat of gray, dark, beige shades with spots. Despite its size, the pet is distinguished by calmness, obedience, loyalty, and adequacy. They can be guards, defenders, and used for hunting.

Chow chow

The name “Chow Chow” is translated as shaggy lion, which fully corresponds to the appearance of the dog. They first appeared in Korea; the breed belongs to the Spitz group. Can be used for home security or as a companion. The coat of the Chow Chow is long, fluffy and thick, the main color is black, blue, red, cream. The average weight of the animal is 27 kg. By temperament, the dog is characterized by caution towards strangers, love and loyalty to the owner, and laziness.

It is important to go for walks with your chow chow as often as possible and do some training. Because the pet prefers to lie on the sofa than to run and play, which is why it often suffers from obesity or a bad mood.

Shih Tzu

The Shih Tzu is considered one of the most ancient breeds; it first appeared in China as a gift to the emperor. A small Shih Tzu dog with long hair of different shades, but the most common colors are black, red, brown and white-red. The maximum weight of a pet is no more than 8 kg. By nature, they are active animals, require a lot of attention, are attentive to the mood of others, love children and are devoted until the end of their lives.

South Russian Shepherd

The South Russian Shepherd Dog was bred in Russia to herd cattle several hundred years ago. In size - a large dog with long hair of white, fawn, gray-piebald shades, average weight - 25 kg. A shepherd dog can be used for protection, security, service and as a pet. The shepherd's character is characterized by savvy, independence, loyalty, and anger towards strangers. Therefore, you need to start raising a dog from childhood.

Chow chow

One of the most difficult breeds. On the one hand, they need the attention of their owners, on the other hand, they do not need their approval. This is an intelligent, proud and strong-willed dog that should be trained from a very early age. Aggressive towards all other animals, unless she grew up with them from childhood.

The owner must respect his Chow Chow, otherwise he will become familiar with her mood swings and intemperance. Moreover, if the owner does not immediately explain to the dog who is in charge in the house, this place will be occupied by the chow-chow. If you train your Chow Chow correctly, it will not react aggressively to every new situation.

The thick coat of this handsome red cat needs to be brushed once or twice a week. You need to comb out all the hair that can be combed out, leaving nothing behind. Bathing more than once a month is not advisable; if there is dirt, you can use dry shampoo. The Chow Chow sheds heavily twice a year. The wool should not be cut under any circumstances.

It does not tolerate heat well; if the dog lives in the yard, you need to provide it with the opportunity to be in the shade and have a container with cool water nearby.

Groenendael

Athletically developed, strong, graceful dog. The coat is thick, but should not interfere with the dog's movement. The Groenendael is a very powerful dog. Its fur is short. The breed is very intelligent, active, loyal and gentle. For people who are not prone to showing emotions, a dog is not suitable. She needs a lot of attention and care from her owner. The dog needs to be trained and socialized. They are distinguished by a strong love for children. They can only live in a house or apartment; it’s hard for them on the street. Every day they need the attention of family members. If you leave them alone at home for a long time, they become very worried and sad.

Boxer

The boxer appeared in Germany as a result of crossing a German shepherd and an English bulldog. This dog is very muscular, has a peculiar head structure and round eyes. They have great endurance and strength, thanks to which they serve in the police and security. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are very good-natured. Any change of mood is written on their face. Boxers have a strong nervous system. They are always calm at home, but active outside. Long walks do not frighten them, they love them and tolerate them well. He perceives strangers with caution. They are dexterous, brave and very strong.

Doberman

This breed of dog with a brutal image was bred by breeder Friedrich Dobermann in Germany by crossing Rottweiler, herding dogs, English Mastiff and Blue Great Dane. His goal was to create dogs that were:

• high alertness;
• characteristic qualities of a security guard;
• the ability to act as a companion in life.

Doberman

Subsequently, Otto Geller carried out work to reduce innate aggression. As a result, modern Dobermans have proven themselves to be excellent guards and police dogs, as well as loyal and reliable family companions.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

This breed has a wonderful character: they will support any idea of ​​their owner, just to be with him, they are devoted to him and very affectionate. They play sports and play with equal pleasure, and if you decide to lie down on the sofa, they will climb next to you with great joy. Once he loves his owner, the Ridgeback is always devoted to him. If they see someone strange, they will drive him away with a loud bark. A dog’s docile nature does not mean that he does not need to be trained and educated.

Skiperka (skipper)

This small black breed of herding dog originated in Belgium. In ancient times, it was an indispensable assistant in the protection of ships.

The name of the breed means “little captain” in Flemish.

The Schiperke is a very hardy, active dog with a high level of intelligence. Her energy is in full swing - absolutely tireless, and with children she is good-natured and affectionate. Despite her small size (average weight 4 – 7 kg), she has the soul of a real shepherd.

Schiperke

The features of the ancestors have been preserved, the character of the guard dog is not satisfactory. Schyperka takes very seriously the protected object entrusted to her.

It adapts perfectly to small apartments, provided there are active walks.

Dachshund

The Dachshund is a nimble, curious and playful dog. She has a sharp mind and sometimes even a sense of humor. To subdue a dachshund, its owner will have to be patient and persistent. The Dachshund loves to play, but if it considers games inappropriate for itself, degrading its dignity, it will show its sharp teeth. Surprisingly, someone so small in size has a truly enormous ego. The owner must take this into account and not tease the animal unnecessarily.

Red Breton Griffon

This is a hunting dog that needs to be trained from childhood. Then she will have a strong-willed disposition and a calm character. The training required is complex and long. It should be fed correctly, monitoring the level of estrogen in the food. Attachment to their owners does not prevent them from being stubborn. The dog is a hunting dog and needs physical exercise in the fresh air. Ears are a dog’s weak point; you should carefully monitor their cleanliness and health.

Newfoundland

This large black dog is also called the "diver" and belongs to breeds with a long history. The appearance of the Newfoundland in the ranks of our smaller brothers has not been reliably established, however, their homeland is considered to be the rocky island of the same name, which is part of Canada.

The Newfoundland is peaceful and calm, and is considered a kind, flexible and friendly breed.

This is an excellent friend for the family and an excellent nanny for a child ; he gets along not only with his brothers, but also with cats.

Newfoundland

The title of Newfoundland diver is not without reason: he feels at home on the shore of a pond, and when he sees a drowning person, he will rush to save him. The Newfoundland is completely unfamiliar with the concept of aggression, the instinct of a hunter is alien to them - people and animals are treated equally without malice and are not suitable for the role of a guard.

Collie

The collie comes from Scotland, from the mountainous regions. This is a very sensitive breed and always responds to any manifestation of the owner’s attention. Collies get along well with children and are fun to play with and play sports with. They love their owners very much and are ready to do a lot for them. Collies are very easy to train and are smart and intelligent. However, it is better to conduct the first lesson with a dog trainer, especially if you are new to dog breeding.

Bakhmul

Bakhmul is none other than the Afghan aboriginal hunting hound. The height of the male dog at the withers is 73 cm. The dog has a strong, dry build. Distinctive features:

• elongated head shape,
• almond shaped eyes,
• elongated hanging ears,
• dry strong limbs,
• tail raised high, curved into a semi- or ring.

The hairline is attractive. The coat is long and straight. It is characterized as silky. The length of the hair increases in the area of ​​the “pants” - elbows, shoulder blades, hips, sides, legs. Color is regulated:

1. Fawn – all shades are acceptable;
2. Subhairy - turns into whitish;
3. White.

Hungarian Vizsla

This breed has an affectionate and cheerful disposition and is very hardy. Her character is balanced, and the Vizsla is an excellent hunting companion. If you raise a Vizsla correctly and treat it competently and attentively, then it will obey its owner and obey him. Because of her wonderful personality, she is the favorite of the whole family. Children over 4 years old play well with a well-mannered Vizsla, but it is not advisable to leave her unattended with younger children.

Alaskan Malamute

The Alaskan Malamute was bred by the Eskimo tribe for sledding.
The height of males reaches 63.5 cm and weighs 38 kg. The dogs have a strong build. Appearance is distinguished by the presence of a “mask” on the muzzle or a “hat” on the head. The hair is dense, medium length, thick, rough. There is undercoat. In summer, the coat becomes slightly lighter and shorter. Pay attention to the color of your pet:

1. Variations from a light shade of gray to black are acceptable. There are shades of red and sable.
2. The combination of shades on the pants, undercoat, and markings is not considered a disadvantage.
3. A solid color can be exclusively white.
4. Uneven or interrupted color is undesirable.
5. Markings often become a distinctive feature.